Installation Base Defense Security System (IBDSS) Maintenance (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 Air Force, 319th Contracting Squadron, Grand Forks AFB, has issued a Notice of Intent to Award a Sole Source Contract for Installation Base Defense Security System (IBDSS) Maintenance Services. The intended awardee is Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA), due to the proprietary nature of their Sentinel software. This is not a request for competitive proposals. Responses from other interested parties are due by May 26, 2026, 12:00 PM Central Standard Time (CST).
Scope of Work
This requirement is for continued maintenance, updates, and operational support of all IBDSS components at Grand Forks AFB. The IBDSS utilizes radars, cameras, and thermal imagers, integrated through ARA's proprietary Sentinel software, to detect and respond to intrusion activity, ensuring base security.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Notice of Intent to Award Sole Source Contract
- Agency: Department of the Air Force, 319th Contracting Squadron
- Place of Performance: Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota
- Product Service Code (PSC): J063 (Maintenance, Repair And Rebuilding Of Equipment: Alarm, Signal, And Security Detection Systems)
- NAICS Code: 561621 (Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths)) with a $25 million size standard
- Anticipated Award Date: On or about September 1, 2026
- Anticipated Start Date: September 28, 2026
- Response Due: May 26, 2026, 12:00 PM CST
- Published Date: May 18, 2026
Justification
The sole source justification is based on the proprietary nature of Applied Research Associates' (ARA) Sentinel software, which is integral to the IBDSS. A recent Sources Sought notice confirmed that no other vendors were capable or authorized to provide maintenance for this system. Awarding to a new contractor would result in unacceptable delays, potential service interruptions, and significant degradation of base security, leading to mission failure.
Additional Notes
This notice is for informational purposes only and is not a request for competitive quotes. Any information received will be considered solely to determine if a competitive requirement is feasible.