Software Engineering and AI Decision Tools - Notice of Award
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 Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has awarded a Firm Fixed-Price Delivery Order to Gartner, Inc. for Software Engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Decision Intelligence Tools. This sole-source award, under GSA FSS Contract N6600119A0049, provides PMA-281 with critical resources to maintain digital services and adapt to the evolving digital landscape. The award was justified by Gartner's unique possession of a TOP SECRET Facility Clearance (FCL), essential for supporting sensitive and classified initiatives.
Scope of Work
Gartner, Inc. will provide PMA-281 leadership with access to robust Information Technology (IT) research databases, toolkits, and metrics. This includes licenses for Gartner's online database of decision intelligence tools, templates, diagnostics, business-focused decision intelligence for IT leaders, executive frameworks, and inquiry sessions with subject matter experts. A dedicated account team with the necessary security clearance will also be provided. These resources are intended to support strategic planning, cost reduction, and workforce skills enhancement for PMA-281 and other PEO (U&W) programs. While the majority of the work is unclassified, a critical TOP SECRET component necessitates the high-level FCL.
Contract & Timeline
- Awardee: Gartner, Inc.
- Awarding Agency: Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), Patuxent River, MD
- Contract Vehicle: Delivery Order under GSA Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) Contract N6600119A0049 (BPA N66001-19-A-0049)
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price (FFP)
- Period of Performance: One year from the award date, planned for 2nd Quarter, Fiscal Year 26.
- Set-Aside: Not applicable (Sole Source)
- Award Date: Published February 11, 2026 (Award planned for 2nd Quarter FY26)
Justification for Sole Source
The contract was awarded on a sole-source basis under the authority of 10 U.S.C. 3204 (a)(1) as implemented by FAR Subpart 8.405-6(a)(1)(i)(B). Market research indicated Gartner, Inc. was the only vendor capable of providing the required services at the necessary quality level due to its unique TOP SECRET Facility Clearance (FCL). This FCL is critical for supporting sensitive and classified initiatives, which are vital to national security and the modernization of computing systems for the fleet. Other potential vendors lacked this essential clearance. The Government will continue market research to expand the vendor pool and promote future competition, including assessing vendors' ability to obtain the necessary FCL.
Additional Notes
This notice is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. The Government's decision not to compete this contract is solely at its discretion. Companies interested in potential subcontracting opportunities should contact Gartner, Inc. directly. Written inquiries can be sent to Austin Gunther at austin.m.gunther2.civ@us.navy.mil.