PRESOLICITATION NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE: F-35 JPO ACURL DEVELOPMENT
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 F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO), under the Department of the Navy / Naval Air Systems Command, has issued a Presolicitation Notice of Intent to Sole Source for the F-35 JPO ACURL Development. This requirement involves integrating a Laboratory Intelligence Validated Emulator (LIVE) and an accredited Secret Training Network (STN) into the Australia, Canada, United Kingdom Reprogramming Laboratory (ACURL) at Eglin AFB, FL. The Government intends to award a sole source contract to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (LM Aero). However, all responsible sources may submit a capability statement within 15 days of publication.
Scope of Work
The project requires two primary integrations:
- LIVE Integration: Provide a full closed-loop threat system representation in ACURL to realistically engage a simulated F-35, validate countermeasure effectiveness, and ensure survivability. This includes real-time operator interaction, data recording and synchronization, and upgradeability for future F-35 Block 4 capabilities. The contractor will procure, deliver, and integrate necessary hardware, software, and network infrastructure.
- STN Integration: Replace an existing unsupportable network with a fully managed and accredited Secret classification network (REL US/AUS/CAN/UK) for ACURL personnel training. This network will support F-35 mission data file production and the development, test, and evaluation of tools and software. The STN package includes updated hardware, software tools, a 10-year sustainment package (spares, licenses, mid-life technical refresh), and on-site technical support by Secret / Special Access Requirement cleared personnel.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation Notice of Intent to Sole Source
- Intended Awardee: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (LM Aero)
- Authority: FAR 6.103-1, "Only One Responsible Source"
- NAICS Code: 336411 - Aircraft Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,500 employees)
- Place of Performance: Eglin AFB, FL
- Eligibility: Potential offerors must possess a Secret security clearance. A DD-254 form will be provided if a solicitation is released.
Submission & Evaluation
- Capability Statement Due: June 12, 2026 (15 days after publication on May 28, 2026).
- Submission: All responsible sources are invited to submit a capability statement demonstrating their ability to meet the requirements.
- Purpose: The Government identifies LM Aero as the sole designer, developer, and integrator of the F-35, possessing proprietary software and technical expertise. This notice allows other sources to challenge the sole source determination.
Contact Information
- Contract Specialist: Jonathan Chen (Jonathan.Chen@jsf.mil)
- Contracting Officer: Colin McCarthy (colin.mccarthy@jsf.mil)