Anticipated Sole Source Award to Instron
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 Air Force (AFTC/PZZF) at Edwards AFB has issued a presolicitation notice of intent to award a sole-source, Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order to Instron for custom-manufactured C-17 Air Drop System (ADS) Link Calibration adapters. This notice is not a solicitation but seeks to identify other potentially qualified sources. Responses are due by April 30, 2026, 12:00 p.m. PDT.
Scope of Requirement
The Government requires a one-time acquisition of custom-manufactured C-17 Air Drop System (ADS) Link Calibration adapters (Instron Part No. CP139582). These adapters are mission-essential hardware designed to interface with the government's OEM Instron calibration machine. The procurement aims to bring calibration services in-house, replacing an outsourced process and improving efficiency for critical Missile Defense Agency (MDA) test projects. The applicable NAICS code is 334515, Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals, with a 750-employee small business size standard.
Justification for Sole Source
The intent to award sole-source to Instron (CAGE: CM3YHLY12DF5) is based on the authority of FAR 6.103-1, "Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements." Instron is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and possesses the proprietary technical data package, drawings, and specifications necessary to ensure a correct and safe interface with their calibration machine, which the government does not own. Limited efforts to obtain competition from other sources were unsuccessful, as none could guarantee the work or materials.
Opportunity for Other Sources
This is not a Request for Proposal. However, any responsible source believing it can meet the Government's requirement may submit a complete technical package. Submissions must provide clear and convincing evidence of capabilities, demonstrate the ability to manufacture adapters 100% compatible with the Instron test system, and include a statement confirming willingness to provide a full performance guarantee for fit, form, and function without access to the OEM's proprietary data. All information must be in writing and contain sufficient detail for the Government to make a determination.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation (Notice of Intent to Award Sole Source)
- Anticipated Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order
- Response Due: April 30, 2026, 12:00 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time
- Published: April 16, 2026
- Agency: Air Force Test Center (AFTC/PZZF), Edwards AFB, CA
Additional Notes
The Air Force Test Center has appointed an Ombudsman for offeror concerns; however, issues should first be addressed with the Contracting Officer. The Government plans to inquire about data rights and update future system requirements to include a complete technical data package (TDP) to enable future competition for sustainment, replacement parts, and accessories. Responses should be emailed to Contracting Specialist Josiah Broadway (josiah.broadway@us.af.mil) and Contracting Officer Christina Day (christina.day.6@us.af.mil).