Optical Comparator Sources Sought

The Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee, under the Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Test Center, is issuing a Sources Sought Notice to identify potential vendors capable of supplying a new Optical Comparator. The procurement seeks a Starrett HF750 Series Optical Comparator specifically configured with a 300mm x 200mm X-Y travel range, multiple magnification levels (10x, 20x, 50x, and optional 100x), a 30-inch diameter screen, motorized axes, and advanced features including automatic edge detection and data transmission capabilities. Qualified respondents must be able to provide installation services, a 1-year warranty, comprehensive documentation, and a 3-day training program for up to two personnel. This is market research to determine procurement methodology, which may result in single-source acquisition, small business set-aside, or full and open competition. All interested parties must submit detailed responses including company information, business classification, available contract vehicles (such as ENCORE II, GSA, NIH, or NASA SEWP), capability packages, and estimated pricing by 1:00 PM Central Time on January 19, 2026, to the specified Air Force contracting personnel.

This procurement is not subject to any set-aside designation at this time, though the final award approach will be determined based on market research responses. No incumbent contractor or current contract vehicle has been identified in the notice. The procurement is expected to be a firm-fixed price purchase order under NAICS code 334513 for businesses with up to 750 employees, though no specific budget range or award value has been disclosed in this pre-solicitation phase. The specification explicitly requires a new, fully functional optical comparator with no refurbished or remanufactured equipment authorized, and delivery must be made FOB Arnold Air Force Base with the contractor assuming all responsibility for safe packaging, transportation, installation, and commissioning. The government emphasizes that this Sources Sought Notice is purely for market research purposes and does not constitute a commitment to award a contract or guarantee any procurement action.