Request for Interested Suppliers of the C-5000 Radio (NSN 5821-01-474-2548; PN 31300-0201-1200)

SUBJECT:

Market research is being conducted to identify potential sources that may possess the expertise, capabilities, experience, and proprietary authority to meet the requirements for qualification and production of the C-5000 Radio (NSN 5821-01-474-2548; PN 31300-0201-1200).

ITEM DESCRIPTION:

The C-5000 Radio is a commercial off-the-shelf item sold on the open market to both civilian and government customers.  This part is categorically referred to as the Cobham Control, Radio Set, C-5000 Communication Management Controller (CMC) and is a microprocessor-based control head that controls the RT-5000 Transceiver.  It is located on the center console and has a 2-line display with 20 characters per line.  The C-5000 can control two radios and has a Night Vision compatible display.  The functionality of the C-5000 Radio is not military-unique, as it is used commercially on various helicopter platforms; however, per conversations between the government and Cobham, any new assets being procured must include "SERVICE BULLETIN, CSB C-5000-64 BACKLIGHT RELIABILITY ENHANCEMENT" (COBHAM Document number 150-072699) in order to properly operate when installed on the TH-1H aircraft.

Impediment to Competition:

The government’s screening analysis (AF Form 761) has assigned this part with an AMC/AMSC of “3/Z”, which designates this requirement as a sole source procurement directly from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).  To be more specific, AMC “3” indicates that the item has been screened and is to be procured from the actual manufacturer or vendor, including a prime contractor who is the actual manufacturer.  AMSC “Z” indicates that this part is categorized as a “Commercial/Non-Developmental/Off-the-Shelf” item.  The screening also states that the OEM is Cobham Management Services Inc. Thus, the manufacture of this part is solely authorized to Cobham as the proprietary owner of the technical data package (TDP).  At this time, the government is unaware of any other source that is authorized to meet this specific agency need.  Previous screenings and government market research have also designated this item as being commercial.  As a result of these facts and factors, Cobham is the only known source with (1) the adequate knowledge of this part’s performance requirements and (2) possession of the required technical data and capabilities needed to produce this item and ensure its compatibility with the aircraft platform in which it will be installed and operate.

INTEREST:

The DLA/AWB Contracting Office intends to award a sole source contract to Cobham Management Services Inc., for the manufacture of the C-5000 Radio in support of the TH-1H helicopter program.  Other interested parties may disclose their interest and state their applicable capabilities in potentially fulfilling this requirement by emailing their name and email address to Micah Tapp micah.tapp.2@us.af.milandVaness Moesvanessa.moes.1@us.af.mil  no later than 05 December 2023.  Otherwise, the Government intends to procure these items using Other Than Full and Open Competition as prescribed by FAR 6.302-1, Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements.

DISCLAIMER:

This sources sought synopsis is for informational purposes only. This is not a request for proposal.  It does not constitute a solicitation, and shall not be construed as a commitment by the government.   Responses in any form are not offers, and the government is under no obligation to award a contract as a result of this announcement.  No funds are available to pay for preparation of responses to this announcement.   Any information submitted by respondents to this technical description is strictly voluntary.