Precision Wavemeter Frequency Comb

The U.S. Air Force Academy Department of the Air Force is seeking to procure a precision wavemeter frequency comb with highly specific technical requirements for analytical laboratory applications. The solicitation requires a self-referenced optical frequency comb centered at 1560 nm (amended from the original 1650 nm specification), based on an Er-doped fiber laser that can be expanded to four additional laser frequency outputs throughout visible and near-infrared wavelengths, including potential extensions to 630 nm, 780 nm, 993 nm, and 1008 nm. Key technical specifications include a comb spacing of 100 or 200 MHz, frequency stability better than two parts in 10^16, capability to lock to external 10 MHz reference input, and ability to lock to heterodyne beatnote of an external laser with phase lock servo offset up to 9 GHz. The system must be a 19-inch rack-mounted unit requiring no water cooling and include computer control interface with various fiber optic connections for laser beam transmission. The government will evaluate submissions based on best value considering price, technical capabilities, and past performance, with proposals due by July 15, 2025 at 3:00 PM MST following an amendment that extended the original deadline.

This procurement is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside under the competitive acquisition process governed by FAR Parts 12 and 13, with vendors required to be registered in the System of Award Management (SAM). The solicitation emphasizes compliance with Buy American requirements, requiring vendors to complete a Buy American Certificate identifying the origin of end products, with domestic end products receiving preference under Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement policies. No specific award values, budget ranges, or incumbent contractors are identified in the available documentation, though the technical complexity suggests a high-value specialized equipment acquisition. The place of performance is specified as the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where this precision optical frequency measurement equipment will be utilized for laboratory research applications. The procurement falls under NAICS code 334516 for Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing and PSC code 6640 for Laboratory Equipment and Supplies, reflecting the specialized nature of this optical frequency comb technology acquisition.