15--Notice of Intent to Sole Source
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Interior (DOI), through its Interior Business Center (IBC), has issued a Notice of Intent to Sole Source for the procurement of two Bell 412EPX helicopters and one Bell 407GXI helicopter for the United States Park Police (USPP). This action is intended to be awarded to Bell Textron, Inc. on a firm fixed-price basis. This notice serves for informational and planning purposes only; it is not a solicitation. Interested sources must submit documentation of their capabilities by 03 February 2026, 03:00 P.M. PST.
Scope of Requirement
The USPP requires these rotary-wing aircraft for critical missions including hoist operations, Medevac, search and rescue, surveillance, law enforcement support, dignitary protection, and mass casualty response. The selected Bell models are identified as the only helicopters in their size class capable of meeting these diverse performance requirements without configuration changes.
Rationale for Sole Source
The rationale for sole source to Bell Textron, Inc. is based on:
- Unique Performance Capabilities: The specified Bell aircraft are the only ones in their class that meet the USPP's performance needs for various missions.
- Operational Efficiency & Safety: USPP pilots are trained on Bell aircraft, and maintaining a consistent platform optimizes pilot performance, mission success, and safety by minimizing differences in emergency procedures and limitations.
- Lack of Alternatives: Other aircraft in the same engine category reportedly lack the necessary lifting capability, endurance, or mission versatility.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price
- Authority: FAR Part 12 (Commercial Products/Services) and FAR Part 15 (Negotiation), specifically FAR 6.302-1 (Only one responsible source).
- Product Service Code (PSC): 1520 – Aircraft, Rotary Wing
- NAICS Code: 336411 – Aircraft Manufacturing (Size Standard: 1,500 employees)
- Submission Deadline: 03 February 2026, 03:00 P.M. PST
- Published Date: 29 January 2026
Submission & Next Steps
This is a notice for informational and planning purposes only. It does not constitute a solicitation. Interested sources believing they can fulfill this requirement must submit documentation of their capabilities and qualifications electronically to Melanie Johnson (melanie_johnson@ibc.doi.gov) by the deadline. The government will consider all timely submissions to determine if a competitive acquisition is feasible. Late responses will not be accepted, and costs incurred in response to this notice will not be reimbursed. The government reserves the right to issue an RFP or not compete the requirement.