Reefing Line Cutter 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
NASA/Johnson Space Center (JSC) has issued a Presolicitation indicating its intent to acquire 100 8-second and 100 16-second reefing line cutters. These specialized components must have undergone system-level parachute deployment qualification testing. NASA/JSC intends to award a sole source contract to Amtec Corp under FAR 6.103-1. Interested parties must submit capabilities by June 4, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
The requirement is for the procurement of specific Reefing Line Cutters (P/N SLH26151700-3XX). The scope includes the manufacture of 100 units each of the 8-second and 16-second cutters, plus additional units for attrition and Destructive Lot Acceptance Testing (DLAT). Manufacturing must strictly adhere to Source Control Drawing SLH26151700 Revision A, with specific process controls (e.g., continuous manufacturing, no shop air for cleaning, liquid control to prevent contamination). Government Supplied Equipment (GSE) sleeves will be provided by NASA-JSC.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation (Intent to Sole Source)
- Agency: National Aeronautics And Space Administration (NASA Johnson Space Center)
- Authority: FAR 6.103-1 (only one responsible source)
- Set-Aside: None specified (intent to sole source, market research for competition)
- Product Service Code: 1377 (Cartridge And Propellant Actuated Devices And Components)
- Place of Performance: Houston, TX, United States (NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center)
- Payment Structure: Milestone-based payments are proposed, tied to Phase I Review, Phase II Review, DLAT completion, and Phase III Review/Order Shipment.
Performance & Quality Requirements
The SOW outlines stringent performance and quality standards, including:
- Lot Acceptance/Certification: Requires submission of radiographic images prior to DLAT.
- Quality Assurance: Covers processes, products, record retention, procurement controls, raw material controls, traceability, problem reporting, and non-conforming material.
- Government Source Inspection: Includes Mandatory Inspection Points (MIPs) and witnessing of testing.
- Safety: Compliance with federal, state, and local codes, and required hazard analyses.
- Calibration: A system for inspection, measuring, and test equipment is mandatory.
- Documentation: Product baseline record, lot acceptance data package, and post-production modifications acceptance data package are required.
- Special Requirements: Contractor must obtain Competent Authority Approval and Safety Data Sheets for pyrotechnic devices.
Response & Evaluation
- Response Due: June 4, 2026, 5:00 PM Central Daylight Time (CDT)
- Submission Method: Electronically via email to John Leppala (john.leppala@nasa.gov).
- Evaluation: Submitted capabilities and qualifications will be evaluated solely to determine if this acquisition can be conducted on a competitive basis. The Government retains discretion regarding a decision not to compete.
- Additional Notes: NASA Clause 1852.215-84 (Ombudsman) is applicable. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial product or service using FAR Part 12.