Bose ProFlight Series 2 Headsets

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a Single Source Justification for the procurement of BOSE ProFlight Series 2 Headsets. The justification is based on extensive testing that determined this specific headset is the only one that meets the requirements for KC-46 flight operations.

• BOSE Proflight Headsets with the following specific features:

  • Six pin LEMO plug.
  • Compatibility with 6-pin LEMO to dual-plug (civil) and 6-pin LEMO to single-plug (military) adapter plugs without converters.
  • Microphone compatible with high and low impedance systems, ensuring no interference when keyed.
  • Ability to not interfere with boom operator 3D glasses use during air refueling.
  • Capability to operate in one or two ear modes for cross cockpit checklist reading (IAW KC-46 SOPs).
  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Technical Standard Order (TSO) approval.
  • Ability to turn Bluetooth off during use.

• The document references an "Estimated Contract Cost" which is redacted.

• This document is a justification for a single source award, not a solicitation with submission instructions or evaluation criteria.

• Not applicable, as this is a single-source justification.

• The justification details over 20 flight headset tests conducted.

• The Bose electret microphone was found to produce clear sound in the military single-plug configuration, unlike other tested headsets.

• Over-ear and on-ear headset styles were found to inhibit the use of 3D glasses during air refueling.

• A 9V-powered civil-to-military adapter was deemed inadequate due to potential failure.

• The contracting officer determined that only a single source is reasonably available in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1).

• Future procurements will include additional market research.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation (FA462126Q0009) is for the procurement of Bose ProFlight Series 2 Headsets and associated accessories. The government intends to award a Firm Fixed Price Contract.

• Bose ProFlight Series 2 Headsets (90 Each)

• 6 PIN LEMO TO U174 PLUG (90 Each)

• 6 PIN LEMO TO GA ADAPTER (90 Each)

• Shipping (1 Each)

• Bose ProFlight Series 2 Headsets for the 64th ARS (15 Each)

• 6 PIN LEMO TO U174 PLUG for the 64th ARS (15 Each)

• 6 PIN LEMO TO GA ADAPTER for the 64th ARS (15 Each)

• Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price

• Period of Performance: Delivery requested by 30 June 2026.

• Offer Due Date: 20 April 2026, 10:00 AM CDT.

• Questions Due: 15 April 2026, 10:00 AM CDT. Submit questions to warnage.fonseka@us.af.mil and wesley.neaves@us.af.mil.

• Submission Format: PDF, limited to 5 pages. Offerors may elect to use reps and certs from SAM.gov.

• Evaluation Factors: Technical Acceptance and Price. The government will evaluate offers in order of lowest price until two offers are rated "technically acceptable".

• This acquisition is set aside 100% for Small Business.

• NAICS Code: 334310

• Size Standard: 750

• The solicitation incorporates FAR clauses by reference, including those related to commercial products and services, payment instructions (WAWF), and item unique identification.

• Attachments include a Statement of Need and a Brand Name Justification.

Statement of Need (SON)

To procure 105 Bose ProFlight Series II model flight headsets for use by the 22nd OG on the KC-46 aircraft at McConnell AFB.

• Provide 105 Bose ProFlight Series II model flight headsets.

• Headsets must feature a six-pin LEMO plug.

• Compatibility required with specific adapter plugs (six pin to GA plug, Bose part number 327080-0010; six pin to U174 plug, Bose part number 327080-0020) without battery converters.

• Microphone must be compatible with both high and low impedance systems.

• Headset design must not interfere with boom operator 3D glasses during air refueling.

• Must allow for one or two-ear operation to facilitate checklist reading per KC-46 SOPs.

• Must have Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Technical Standard Order (TSO) approval.

• Must have the ability to turn Bluetooth off during use (Bose part number 789812-5040).

• Provide 105 six-pin to GA plugs.

• Provide 105 six-pin to U174 plugs.

• A minimum of 1-year warranty is required for each headset. Defects not caused by government damage or misuse must be replaced by the contractor at no cost to the government.

• Delivery is required no later than 30 calendar days after receipt of the order.

• CLINs 0001, 0002, 0003 to be delivered to McConnell AFB.

• CLINs 0005, 0006, 0007 to be delivered to Pease ANGB.

• Contractors shall not provide any service or product that requires the use of Class I Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) in testing, operation, or maintenance.

• Specific Class I ODSs are listed, including Halons, Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), Carbon Tetrachloride, Methyl Chloroform, and Methyl Bromide.