KamTek, Inc. (KTI) Freezer Services
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 Defense Health Agency (DHA) Contracting Activity (DHACA) Fort Detrick, MD, intends to award a sole source Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) contract to KamTek, Inc. (KTI) for 24-hour monitoring and storage of critical -80°C ultralow freezers. These freezers contain irreplaceable plasma, saliva, and serum samples vital for investigations of rare adverse events following immunizations. Responses to this Special Notice are due by February 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
KTI will provide continuous monitoring and storage for two IHD-owned and one rented ultralow freezers. This includes 24/7 monitoring via the Rees Scientific Monitoring System, immediate alerts for temperature deviations, and swift transfer of contents to backup freezers during malfunctions. KTI also offers robust security, environmental condition monitoring, standby generator power, and efficient, minimal-notice access (within 24 hours at no additional cost) with bench space for sample management. They are certified for preventative maintenance and calibration of the freezers.
Justification for Sole Source
KTI is deemed the only vendor capable of meeting all requirements due to their unique capabilities and the critical nature of the samples. Their facility provides comprehensive monitoring, rapid response to issues, and stringent security protocols. Unlike other vendors, KTI offers cost-effective access without additional fees for program management or escort services, saving an estimated $18,000 annually. Relocating the irreplaceable samples and aging freezers would incur significant costs (estimated $30,000 for replacement) and high risk of damage, jeopardizing over 20 years of research. KTI's proximity to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center facilitates efficient site visits, and their expertise ensures seamless operations and compliance with critical Department of Defense regulations (e.g., DODI 6205.02, DoDD 6200.04, DoDI 6490.03).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) Sole Source
- Duration: Base period (March 1, 2026 - February 28, 2027) plus four one-year option periods, extending through February 28, 2031.
- Set-Aside: None (Sole Source Intent)
- NAICS: 493120 (Size Standard: $32 million)
- Response Due: February 13, 2026, by 7:00 PM ET
- Published: January 29, 2026
Additional Notes
This is a Special Notice announcing an intent to award a sole source contract under FAR 6.103-1(b). It is not a request for competitive quotes. Information received will be used to determine if a competitive procurement is in the Government's best interest. If no written responses are received by the due date, the award will proceed as sole source. All questions and responses should be emailed to Mr. Christopher L. Cook.