Intent to sole Source The Novo Shadow 3 system
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 (48th RQS) intends to sole source the procurement of The Novo Shadow 3 system from Novo Dr Inc. This is a special notice, not a solicitation, and quotes are not being accepted at this time. The government is seeking capability statements from other interested sources. Responses are due by May 26, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Novo Shadow 3 system is required for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel to identify, evaluate, and render safe suspected explosive devices using high-resolution, portable digital radiography. Key requirements include:
- Highly portable and powerful digital radiography platform.
- Utilizes a unique, proprietary Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) mesh networking.
- Minimal imaging dead space.
- Mission-critical for reliable operations in severely degraded or minimal Radio Frequency (RF) environments.
- "Super Light" form factor: complete system weighs a maximum of 8.8 lbs (4.0 kg), with the detector component weighing strictly 2.2 lbs (1.0 kg).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice / Intent to Sole Source
- Authority: FAR 6.302-1 (only one responsible source)
- Item: CLIN 0001 - The Novo Shadow 3 system
- Response Due: May 26, 2026, 18:30 UTC
- Published: May 19, 2026
- Place of Performance: Tucson, AZ
Evaluation
All responsible sources may identify their interest and provide capability statements. Responses received will be considered, but a determination by the Government not to compete is solely within its discretion. Approval of a new source is required, but the 355 CONS will not delay award while Source Approval is pending, as the time required for approval typically prevents timely award.
Additional Notes
This notice serves as both a synopsis and an intent to sole-source. The Government states it does not possess the necessary information to manufacture the equipment from any source other than the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Market research confirmed no other systems possess the necessary technical specifications, particularly regarding unique technological features, weight, and size requirements.