F-35 JPO PRESOLICITATION NOTICE TO SOLE SOURCE: MCK
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 F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) has issued a Presolicitation Notice of Intent to Sole Source for a Mission Planning Environment (MPE) Country Kit (MCK). This requirement is for a centrally managed mission planning system designed to replace individual F-35 Partners' existing systems. The JPO intends to award a sole source contract to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (LM Aero), citing their unique position as the F-35's sole designer, developer, and integrator, possessing proprietary software and technical expertise. Potential offerors must submit capability statements within fifteen (15) days of the notice publication.
Scope of Work
The MCK will comprise baseline sets of containerized software and hardware, including servers, workstations, and Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) National Security Agency (NSA) approved High Assurance In-line Network Encryptors (INEs). The selected contractor will be responsible for:
- System design and software development
- Architecture and hardware engineering
- Cybersecurity and networking interoperability
- Technical program management
- Training development and integration
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation / Notice of Intent to Sole Source
- NAICS Code: 336411, Aircraft Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,500 employees)
- Place of Performance: Fort Worth, TX
- Response Due: June 17, 2026 (for capability statements)
- Published Date: June 2, 2026
Submission & Eligibility
This is an intent to award to a sole source. However, interested parties who believe they can meet the requirement must submit a capability statement within fifteen (15) days of the notice. Offerors must possess a Secret security clearance to be eligible for award. If a solicitation is released, relevant DD Form 254 information will be provided.
Points of Contact
- Contract Specialist: Jonathan Chen (Jonathan.Chen@jsf.mil)
- Contracting Officer: Colin McCarthy (colin.mccarthy@jsf.mil)