NASA/DFRC has a requirement to develop capable unmanned aircraft vehicle (UAV) demonstration systems to advance technology readiness through flight. Anticipated tasks include: 1) Providing general program planning in support of the "stand-up" of a comprehensive UAV capability at the Drydent Flight Research Center; 2) Providing the necessary training and documentation to allow NASA Dryden Personnel (or their designated officials) to fly, maintain and integrate various payloads on the Altair/Predator B UAV; 3) Providing spare parts necessary to keep the Altair/Predator B operational and to provide the logistical support necessary to maintain the spare parts; 4) Providing the necessary program management activities to support NASA for production build status, issues, and reporting; and 5) Supporting NASA in interfacing with potential users (customers) of the system as needed in support of business development for the Center.
NASA/DFRC intends to purchase the above tasks exclusively from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. of Delaware. The authority for proceeding with this procurement without full and open competition is 10 USC 2304(c)(1)--Only One Responsible Source. The Government has an existing lease with General Atomics for an Altair/Predator B UAV. This particular aircraft is the only known UAV that can not only meet all of the Government's payload, altitude and endurance requdirements, but can do so within current cost, training and timely availability. General Atomics is the sole manurfacturer and supplier of this aircraft and necessary spare parts, maintenance and training capabilities. Accordingly, only General Atomics can meet the requirements of this procurement.
The Government intends to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12.
Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. local time on October 13, 2004. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government.
Oral communications are acceptable in response to this notice.
All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency.
An Ombudsman has been appointed. See NASA Specific Note "B".
Any referenced notes may be viewed at the following URLs linked below.
