Life Support Systems Scientific Test, Analysis, and Qualification Lab (LSS STAQ)

Quick Summary

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Human Systems Division (AFLCMC/ROU) is conducting a Sources Sought Synopsis (SSS) for Life Support Systems Scientific Test, Analysis, and Qualification Lab (LSS STAQ) operational support. This market assessment aims to identify potential sources capable of providing laboratory operations, maintenance, development, test, and evaluation for OBOGS and oxygen systems technology at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. Responses are due by February 22, 2026, at 12:00 PM EST.

Purpose

This SSS is for information and planning purposes only, serving as a market assessment to identify vendors with expertise in laboratory operational support for the LSS STAQ. AFLCMC/ROU seeks to explore cost-effective options, obtain feedback on the attached draft Performance Work Statement (PWS), and inform the acquisition strategy (e.g., full and open, small business set-aside, sole source, or DLA contract). This is not a request for proposal or a commitment to award a contract.

Scope of Work

The requirement involves comprehensive support for the LSS STAQ lab, focusing on Aircrew Flight Equipment and Aircrew Oxygen System Performance Test and Evaluation. Key activities include:

• Operation, maintenance, test, and evaluation of On-Board Oxygen Generating Systems (OBOGS) and related oxygen systems technology.
• Investigation of human interfaces, including mask and breathing support systems, head gear, body wear, aeromedical devices, protective equipment, and survival gear for ground, air, and space operations.
• Data collection, processing, and analysis of aircraft oxygen system performance data from laboratory and field tests.
• Test planning, setup, instrumentation, calibration, and execution of experiments.
• Acquisition, setup, and maintenance of Special Test Equipment (STE) and Special Tooling (ST).
• Operation and maintenance of laboratory test support infrastructure (e.g., vacuum pumps, altitude chambers, environmental chambers).
• Development of test mock-ups and prototypes, and conducting lab and field tests for new technical designs.
• Compliance with security (DD Form 254, OPSEC, CUI, ITAR), program management, data management, hazardous materials, and safety regulations.

Requirements for Responses

Interested parties should provide responses limited to 10 pages, including:

• Administrative Information: Company/institute name, address, POC, Cage Code, DUNS, phone, email, web page URL, and ownership (domestic/foreign).
• Small Business Status: Indicate status based on NAICS Code 541380 (Testing Laboratories) (Small Business, WOSB, EDWOSB, 8(a), HUBZone, VOSB, SDVOSB).
• Capability Statement: Clearly describe the ability to meet each requirement listed in the SSS and the attached PWS, including details on Government Furnished Equipment (GFE)/Contractor Furnished Equipment (CFE) needs, and existing support capabilities (staff, training, knowledge, skills, and abilities).
• Prime/Subcontractor Interest: State whether interested in being a prime contractor or subcontractor. Small businesses should detail how FAR 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting) would be met if a set-aside is determined.

Contract & Timeline

• Type: Sources Sought Synopsis (SSS)
• NAICS Code: 541380 (Testing Laboratories)
• Set-Aside: Not yet determined; market research will inform the acquisition strategy. Small businesses are encouraged to respond.
• Response Due: February 22, 2026, 12:00 PM EST
• Published: January 23, 2026
• Place of Performance: Wright-Patterson AFB, OH

Submission & Contacts

Responses must be emailed to Colin Cochran (colin.cochran@us.af.mil) and Joseph Derevage (joseph.derevage.1@us.af.mil). The email subject line must be: "Response to Human Systems Directorate Lab Operational Support Sources Sought Synopsis ROUK-26-002". Proprietary information should be clearly marked.