Smokejumper DC-7 Main Canopies, MT1S Reserve Canopies with Deployment Systems

The Forest Service, operating on behalf of the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) and the National Technology & Development Program (NTDP), issued a Special Notice on April 8, 2026, announcing its intent to award a sole-source, firm-fixed price purchase order to Airborne Systems North America of New Jersey Inc. for specialized parachute components. This acquisition falls under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12 in conjunction with simplified acquisition procedures under FAR Part 13.106-1(b)(1). The procurement is classified under NAICS code 314999 (All Other Miscellaneous Textile Product Mills) and PSC code 1670 (Parachutes; Aerial Pick Up, Delivery, Recovery Systems; And Cargo Tie Down Equipment). Airborne Systems has been identified as the sole manufacturer capable of providing the required life-safety components. This action is being conducted without a set-aside for small businesses.

The Forest Service requires specialized parachute inventory to support the National Smokejumper Program, specifically 30 DC-7 Main Canopies, 14 MT1S Main Canopies with top skin drogue rings, 7 MT1S Reserve Canopies, and 7 MT1S Deployment Systems. All components must be compatible with existing USFS-approved deployment systems (MTDC-1126, 1127, and 1129), and delivery is scheduled for the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2027. While this is a non-competitive procurement, interested parties who believe they can meet the technical and safety requirements may submit a capability statement to Contracting Officer Amelia Velasco at amelia.velasco@usda.gov within 15 days of the announcement (by April 23, 2026). Contractors seeking consideration must demonstrate their ability to achieve inclusion on the Forest Service Approved Equipment List. The Government will not reimburse any costs incurred in preparing and submitting responses to this notice.