KIV-78A Production
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 has issued an Award Notice for the KIV-78A Production contract, awarded on a sole-source basis to General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS). This contract is for the production of KIV-78A Mode 5 Cryptographic Appliqués for the Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) host system, serving as a follow-on to the legacy KIV-78 production.
Scope of Work
The contract covers the production and procurement of:
- KIV-78A Cryptographic Appliqués
- Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs)
- -3 conversion kits
- Depot test station
- Associated engineering support, travel, and training. The KIV-78A is designed to replace the legacy KIV-78, offering enhanced cryptographic resilience and quantum resistance.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm Fixed Price (FFP) requirements contract
- Ordering Period: 60 months
- Funding: 3080 Procurement appropriations
- Projected Award Date: FY26, 1st Quarter
- Published Date: May 7, 2026
- Set-Aside: Sole Source to General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS)
Reason for Sole Source
GDMS was identified as the only responsible source under the authority of 10 USC 3204(a)(1) and FAR 6.302-1(a)(2)(ii). The justification highlights:
- GDMS is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and the only company with the required National Security Agency (NSA) High Assurance Certification for this specialized equipment.
- GDMS designed the internal components and software based on its proprietary Advanced INFOSEC Machine (AIM III) crypto engine.
- The company possesses unique capabilities, NSA-approved production facilities, and is DoD AIMS PO certified.
- Awarding to any other source would lead to substantial cost duplication and unacceptable delays, with an estimated minimum of 6 years for another vendor to develop and certify a replacement.
- GDMS holds key intellectual property rights, and a Sources Sought/Notice of Proposed Contract Action (NOPCA) on SAM.gov did not identify other sources.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Ms. Rachel J. Sexton at rachel.sexton@us.af.mil or 210-925-0743.