The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Eastern Region Acquisition Division office intends to award, on a sole source basis, under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), with Vaisala, Inc. for three (3) TSS928 thunderstorm sensors and accessories for the Sterling Field Support Center (SFSC) in Sterling, VA.

Justification for Sole Source
In order to fulfill its mission, the Navy has a requirement, documented in a service-level agreement with the National Weather Service (NWS), to install thunderstorm sensors on the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS). The Navy has tasked the NWS with the implementation of this project.

The current thunderstorm sensor, the Vaisala TSS924 is no longer manufactured and the new model produced by Vaisala meeting all the existing requirements is the TSS928. The Navy ASOS sites have TSS924s at most locations, but there is not enough stock to complete all installations. Therefore, three (3) TSS928s will need to be purchased.

The predecessor sensor, TSS924, has been in the ASOS network for over 15 years. It took over a decade to develop, test, integrate, and commission. The ASOS thunderstorm algorithm was developed using the data string from this particular sensor with their proprietary algorithms that display specific thunderstorm reporting data. The TSS928 is the direct, compatible replacement for the TSS924. The use of another sensor would require extremely high development, integration, and testing costs to the Government.

Special Notice
This special notice is not a request for competitive offers and no solicitation package is available. However, firms that believe they can provide the supplies may submit substantiating documentation in writing within five (5) business days of this notice. Responses can be sent via e-mail to [email protected]. Documentation 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 conduct a competitive procurement, based upon response to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice. If no documentation is received, award will be made directly to Vaisala, Inc.

DOC, Eastern Region Acquisition Division requires that all contractors doing business with this office be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM). No award can be made to a company not registered in SAM. For additional information and to register in SAM, please access the following web site: www.sam.gov. To register, all contractors must have a Dun and Bradstreet number. A Dun and Bradstreet number may be acquired free of charge by contacting Dun and Bradstreet on-line at http://www.dnb.com/eupdate or by telephone at (800)333-0505.

 

Bid Protests Not Available