NIPR Virtual CORE Storage Hardware Upgrade

Sources Sought

This is a Sources Sought notice issued by the 42d Contracting Squadron, Maxwell AFB, AL, to gather information for a potential procurement of a brand name Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) NIPR Virtual CORE Storage Hardware Upgrade for the 42d Communications Squadron. The requirement involves specific compatibility and interoperability with existing HPE infrastructure. This notice is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded based on responses.

Respondents are asked to provide:

1. General Information: Company name, address, POC, contact details, business type (small, large, etc.) under NAICS 541519 (size standard 135 EMP), CAGE Code, UEI. Also, identify the NAICS code your company typically uses for similar requirements and any customary commercial contract terms that would enhance effectiveness.
2. Capabilities: Confirm if your company can meet the requirement with brand name HPE equipment (Yes/No). If capable of providing an alternative (non-HPE) solution, provide a detailed technical narrative and supporting data demonstrating 100% seamless integration with the existing HPE environment without mission degradation or significant re-engineering/retraining.

• Format: Email responses to the points of contact listed below.

• Deadline: 12:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time on 05 May 2026.

• Important Notes: Do not submit proposals. No reimbursement for costs incurred. Information submitted will not be returned and may be incorporated into a future solicitation. Avoid submitting proprietary or competition-sensitive information.

• 1st Lt John Putnam (Contract Specialist): john.putnam.8@us.af.mil, (334)953-8083

• Mr. Jeremy Kersey (Contracting Officer): jeremy.kersey.1@us.af.mil, (334)953-3526

• Attachment 1: Statement of Requirements (SOR), NIPR Virtual CORE Storage Hardware Upgrade

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This document outlines the requirements for the 42nd Communications Squadron (42CS) at Maxwell AFB, AL, to upgrade its HPE 3PAR 8400 2N NIPR Core Storage Hardware. The upgrade involves replacing existing hardware with a Modular Smart Array (MSA) and adding a fourth node, followed by data migration and reconfiguration of host connections.

• Turnkey Solution: The contractor shall provide a complete turnkey solution, including project management, design, engineering, fabrication, installation, configuration, migration, testing, and transition to operational status.

• Equipment Provision: Supply Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) MSA 2070, HPE DL360 Gen 11 8SFF Server, and 3 years of initial licensing and sustainment support.

• Network Transition: Move (4) Hosts to a Direct Connect and remove (2) current HPE SN6000B FC Switches from the data path after installation and migration.

• Data Migration: Migrate data from the existing HPE 3PAR 8400 to the new MSA.

• Configuration: Install, program, configure, and join new equipment to the network.

• Testing: Develop and execute a Project Completion Test Plan 30 days prior to the contract start date to ensure all equipment and systems are 100% operational.

• Documentation & Training: Provide submittal sheets for all materials, final as-built documentation, knowledge transfer on configurations and architecture, and basic training on administration, management, and troubleshooting.

• Security: Configure Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) hardening and perform Information Assurance (IA) scans as required.

• Logistics: Deliver new equipment to Maxwell AFB, AL. Remove and properly dispose of all replaced parts and work-generated residue off-base.

• Support: 24x7 telephone support with Next Business Day Onsite maintenance. Includes remote diagnostics, onsite maintenance, and coverage for all parts, labor, and materials.

• Quality: All new IT equipment and cabling must be ITS standard products from reputable manufacturers; no refurbished, reconditioned, or "gray" market items accepted. No refurbished, re-manufactured, or counterfeit parts will be installed.

• Compatibility: All new equipment must be forward/upward compatible. All equipment and parts must be Trade Agreement Act (TAA) Compliant and JELA eligible.

• Completion: Ensure all attached and associated equipment is returned to a 100% fully operational state upon completion.

• Location: Maxwell AFB, AL.

• Delivery: F.O.B. Destination to 42CS/SCXE Attn: Johnny Batton Bldg. 1154, IT Warehouse 455 S. Kelly Street Maxwell AFB, AL 36112.

• Contractor Survey: Bidders are highly encouraged to conduct their own independent configuration survey prior to bidding.

• Submittals: Provide submittal sheets for approval 10 days prior to project start.

• Warranties & Manuals: Provide all manufacturer warranties, equipment manuals, and related documentation.

• Personnel: All work must be performed by Authorized Technicians.

• Security: Unclassified services only; no CAC required. Contractor personnel require base access and must comply with installation access requirements, including REAL ID Act compliance. Follow base traffic laws and cellular phone policies. No unauthorized IT systems or networks. Firearms and ammunition are prohibited.

• Notification: Notify the contracting officer within 30 days before on-base performance.