Orion Crew Survival Systems Suit (OCSS) Intent to Sole Source
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 National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Johnson Space Center (JSC) has issued a Presolicitation announcing its intent to sole source the Orion Crew Survival Systems Suit (OCSS) and accompanying support hardware to David Clark Company Incorporated (DCCI). This requirement is for Artemis 3 and subsequent missions. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to NASA by May 7, 2026, 5PM Central Daylight Time (CDT), to determine if this acquisition can be conducted on a competitive basis.
Scope of Work
This effort requires the production of flight crew and backup flight crew suits, along with supporting suit hardware. These items are essential for Artemis 3 and subsequent flights, and will also be utilized by the Orion Crew Survival Systems team for critical integrated-system tests and flight crew training. A key requirement is that the suit must have already completed full qualification efforts for compatibility with the Orion vehicle and the Artemis mission architecture.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation (Intent to Sole Source)
- Intended Contractor: David Clark Company Incorporated (DCCI)
- Authority: FAR 6.103-1 (Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements)
- Commercial Product: The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial product or service using FAR Part 12.
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: May 7, 2026, 5PM CDT
- Published: April 22, 2026
Evaluation
Submitted capabilities and qualifications will be evaluated solely to determine whether to conduct this acquisition on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this acquisition on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.
Additional Notes
Interested parties must declare their business size status (e.g., Large Business, Small Business, Woman-Owned Small Business). NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable.