Notice of Intent - 80-T RT Crane

The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Test Center is seeking to procure one used 2019 Grove GRT880 80-ton rough terrain crane (Serial Number 236124) through a sole source acquisition from MGX Equipment Services, Inc. The crane is required to support operational activities of the 704th Test Group, Detachment 1 at the National Radar Cross Section Test Facility (NRTF) located approximately 50 miles from Holloman Air Force Base, where it will be used for loading and unloading trucks, mounting and dismounting large test targets, and other mission-critical support tasks. The specific crane meets defined requirements including 80-ton lift capacity, 360-degree rotating planetary swing, boom length capability of 40 to 135 feet, heated and cooled cab with skylight, 4-wheel drive with 4-mode steering, grooved drum main hoist with variable speed control, water-cooled diesel engine, and full lighting and safety features including fire extinguisher, single swivel hook with safety latch, backup alarm, and dual rear view mirrors. The sole source justification is based on the crane's current on-site availability and operational use since 2019, the government's detailed knowledge of its maintenance and operational history, and the significant capability gap and costs that would result from acquiring alternative equipment. The notice of intent was posted on March 11, 2026, with a due date of March 16, 2026, and no formal solicitation document is available for this pre-solicitation notice.

This acquisition includes no set-aside designation and represents a firm fixed price purchase order. MGX Equipment Services, Inc. is the identified incumbent and only known source capable of providing the specific asset. The contract award value is $524,935.00, with an estimated annual ownership cost of $92,240 including depreciation and maintenance, compared to the current rental cost of approximately $258,000 annually ($21,500 monthly). A rent-versus-buy analysis determined that purchasing becomes more economically advantageous than renting if the crane is needed beyond 4.3 months annually; given year-round utilization, the purchase represents the most cost-effective solution and is expected to generate savings exceeding $1 million compared to acquiring new equipment. Market research conducted in January 2026 validated the purchase price as well-positioned within current market rates. The contractor must complete acquisition and delivery within 60 days after receipt of order, with the contracting officer identified as Tyler S. Payne (AFTC/PZI) and project lead Heather J. Morris (704 TSS/TGSO).