Redacted Justification - USAPT Pyro Gerb Sticks
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 Army, specifically MICC-FT KNOX, has published a Justification for a sole-source acquisition of Pyro Gerb Sticks for the USAPT "Golden Knights" parachute team. This justification details the critical need for 3,500 "Silver Droppy" Gerbs for nighttime demonstrations to enhance safety and situational awareness during aerial jumps. The notice was published on April 16, 2026.
Scope of Requirement
The requirement is for 3,500 "Silver Droppy" Gerbs to be used by the USAPT "Golden Knights" parachute team during nighttime demonstrations. These pyrotechnics are essential for providing visual cues, ensuring safety, and maintaining situational awareness for parachutists performing aerial maneuvers. The place of performance is NC 28307, United States.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Justification (for Sole-Source Acquisition)
- Product Service Code: 1370 (Pyrotechnics)
- Set-Aside: None (Sole-Source Justification)
- Published: April 16, 2026
- Document Date: April 13, 2026
Justification & Rationale
This document justifies a sole-source acquisition under the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT) due to the unique and critical nature of the pyrotechnics. Key reasons include:
- Unique Capabilities: The specific "Silver Droppy" Gerbs are compatible with parachutist uniforms and offer an unmatched burn rate for visibility during aerial maneuvers.
- Proven Reliability: The current vendor's products have been exclusively used for eight years, demonstrating consistent performance in a high-risk environment.
- Market Research: Extensive market research, including database and web searches, failed to identify any other qualified sources, including small businesses, capable of meeting the specific requirements.
- Safety: Competing products have previously caused equipment burn-through and posed risks to personnel, making the current vendor's product the only safe and reliable option.
Additional Notes
The anticipated cost will be determined to be fair and reasonable based on historical data. The government will continue to monitor the market for potential alternative sources for future acquisitions.
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: Kelly Tipple (kelly.m.tipple.civ@army.mil)
- Secondary Contact: Meagan S. Clavel (meagan.s.clavel.civ@army.mil)