Amendment 0001 Notice of Intent to Sole Source: Jackal Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) Platforms and Outdoor Navigation Sensors

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory, operating through the Department of the Army Materiel Command Army Contracting Command Aberdeen Proving Ground, is seeking to sole-source the procurement of Jackal Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) Platforms and Outdoor Navigation Sensors for edge AI optimization research. The contract requires one Jackal J100 Robotic Research Platform equipped with comprehensive technical specifications including Mini-ITX computer configurations, GPU upgrade, navigation software, positioning sensors, WiFi and cellular radio capabilities, depth sensors, and a complete spares kit. The system must operate effectively in both wooded and urban environments, maintain compatibility with Robot Operating System (ROS), support autonomous and semi-autonomous missions, weigh under 150 pounds, and remain non-ITAR restricted. This is a non-competitive procurement structured as a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract with evaluation criteria focused on meeting the detailed salient characteristics and technical specifications outlined in the solicitation documents. The original submission deadline was extended through Amendment 0001, with offers now due by July 31, 2025, at 11:59 AM EST, submitted via email to the designated contract specialist.

This procurement carries no set-aside designation and identifies Rockwell Automation, Inc. as the intended sole-source contractor due to their unique capabilities in providing the specified UGV platform and associated systems. While specific contract values are not disclosed in the available documentation, the procurement includes a comprehensive three-year warranty covering parts, workmanship, and labor, along with priority customer support access and 48-hour response times for technical inquiries. The contract requires delivery of all UGV platforms and outdoor navigation sensors within 12 weeks after contract award, with performance and delivery taking place at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. The technical specifications include precise operational parameters such as a maximum speed of 2 meters per second, operating temperature range of -20°C to 45°C, and multiple power configuration options to support the Army Research Laboratory's research and development requirements. The contract falls under NAICS code 334511 for search, detection, and navigation system manufacturing, with delivery and inspection occurring at the Logistics Warehouse, Building 321, at Aberdeen Proving Ground.