USAF Special Warfare Video Data Link (VDL) Radios

Notice of Intent to Sole Source

This is a Sole Source synopsis published for informational purposes only. The related Request for Information (RFI)/Sources Sought Synopsis (SSS) was published on 25 February 2021 under FA8629-21-R-5004.

The United States Air Force, AFLCMC/WISK Special Warfare Contracting Office, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, intends to award a sole source contract to L3 Technologies, Inc. Communications Systems – West, Salt Lake City, UT. This proposed action, which will support Special Warfare Airmen and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) partners, will be an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with a five year period of performance (POP). This proposed action will be used to procure existing and future production/sustainment capabilities for non-developmental (NDI) Video Data Link (VDL) systems that have transmit and/or receive capability either as a stand-alone radio, attached to a multi-channel radio in the form of a mission module (MM), or as selectable waveforms in a software defined multi-channel radio. The VDL capability utilizes devices to provide encrypted and/or un-encrypted interoperable data exchanges between C4I, operational platforms and ground users for USAF and International partners. These are man-portable, mounted, and airborne radios and accessories. The proposed action will also include associated support.

The applicable NAICS code is 334220, Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing. The size standard as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is 1,250 employees.

The Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of 10 United States Code (USC) 2304 (c)(1) as implemented in FAR 6.302-1(a)(2).

The proposed source is L3 Technologies, Inc. Communication Systems – West, a subsidiary of L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (“L3Harris”), 640 N 2200 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84116. The reason for lack of competition is as follows: L3Harris is currently the only responsible source, and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements with non-developmental (NDI) solutions. L3Harris’ VDL systems are software programmable, exportable, and capable of U.S./FVEY, NATO, international and commercial waveforms. L3Harris is also the only company that provides a VDL ruggedized radio solution for the dismounted user.

This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals; however, all responsible sources may submit a capability statement or exception to the intent to purchase on a sole source basis. All information submitted should support the respondent's capability to provide the items required, and shall be furnished at no cost or obligation to the Government.

 A determination by the Government whether to compete this proposed contract action based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

Responses must be in writing, and must provide clear and concise documentation. The Government shall consider responses that are received not later than 3:00 PM Eastern Time, Wednesday, 1 September 2021.

All inquiries and responses may be submitted in writing to amber.taylor.9@us.af.mil, with confirmation of delivery requests directed to: 937-656-8205.