Ntent to sole source - inveris training

The South Carolina Department of Corrections is issuing a sole source procurement (Solicitation #5400023654) for Smart Weapons to be integrated with their existing FATS (Firearms Training Simulation) weapons training system. The specific procurement targets hardware, software, warranties, extended warranties, maintenance, repair, and potential upgrades or enhancements from InVeris Training Solutions, the successor entity to Meggitt Training Systems. The solicitation was initially posted on June 21, 2022, with a response deadline of July 7, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. Potential vendors interested in challenging the sole source award must submit documentation demonstrating their authorization to perform all required services and supplies. Responses can be submitted via sealed package to the SC Department of Corrections Purchasing Branch at 4530 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29210, or electronically to purchasing@doc.sc.gov with "SOLE SOURCE" in the subject line. Vendors wishing to protest the intended award must submit a notice of intent within five business days of the notice posting, with formal protests due within fifteen days. No pre-bid conference or site visit is scheduled for this solicitation.

While the solicitation does not specify set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, it does outline a protest mechanism for vendors who believe they can provide comparable services. The original FATS system was initially procured in 2016 through solicitation 5400010857, where Meggitt Training Systems was the sole respondent. The current procurement represents a continuation of that existing technological infrastructure, with InVeris Training Solutions positioned as the direct successor. The procurement will be posted in the South Carolina Business Opportunities (SCBO) for at least ten business days as required by state procurement regulations. The procurement contact is Brittany Driggers (803-896-8533, Driggers.brittany@doc.state.sc.us), with Ruthie Bishop serving as the Procurement Director. No specific budget range or award value was disclosed in the available documentation. The sole source award becomes effective after the opening date and time if no responsive protests are received.