Sole Source to Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation for VXS Static Crossbar Switch per attachments

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Sole Source Memorandum to acquire Curtiss-Wright VXS Crossbar Switches from Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC). The Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) is the contracting activity. The U.S. Navy has been notified that the VXS Crossbar Switch is obsolete and its production line will be closed soon. This purchase is a limited lifetime buy to ensure the AN/AES-1 Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) maintains operational availability until a replacement is fielded.

• 5 units of VXS Static Crossbar Switch (Part Number: CSW1-021-E4H)

This document explains why the government is pursuing a sole source acquisition for a critical component. It highlights that the VXS Crossbar Switch is manufactured exclusively by Curtiss-Wright and NGC is the sole distributor for the military version. The justification emphasizes that qualifying a new source would incur significant costs, potential delays, and negatively impact the operational availability of the AN/AES-1 system. The requirement will be posted on SAM.gov. This information is relevant for potential bidders to understand the limited nature of this specific procurement and the rationale behind the sole source justification.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document contains various contract clauses, representations, certifications, and instructions relevant to potential bidders. It outlines the terms and conditions that will govern the contract, including sections on Deliveries or Performance, Contract Clauses, Representations and Certifications, Instructions to Bidders, and Evaluation Factors for Award.

• Section F (Deliveries or performance): Specifies FOB Origin and FOB Destination.
• Section G (Contract Clauses): Details clauses related to payment requests, receiving reports, and Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) payment instructions.
• Section I (Contract Clauses): Lists numerous FAR and DFARS clauses covering a wide range of topics including reporting, system for award management, cybersecurity, prohibitions on certain equipment and services, small business representations, child labor, combating trafficking in persons, and restrictions on foreign purchases.
• Section K (Representations, certifications, and other statements of offerors or respondents): Includes clauses related to representations and certifications, particularly concerning telecommunications and video surveillance services, and delinquent tax liability.
• Section L (Instructions Conditions and Notices to Bidders): Provides instructions for offerors, including guidance on System for Award Management, alternative line item proposals, and notices regarding supplier performance risk systems.
• Section M (Evaluation Factors for Award): Outlines the evaluation criteria, stating that the award will be based on Best Value considering Price, Delivery, Quality, and Past Performance.
• Additional Provisions (C-204-H001, C-211-H018, G-232-H005, G-242-H001, G-242-H002, L-204-H003): These cover specific instructions such as the use of Navy support contractors for official contract files, government approval processes, invoicing procedures, contract administration functions, hours of operation, and holiday schedules.

This document is critical for bidders as it defines the legal and contractual framework of the opportunity. It details the specific clauses, requirements, representations, and certifications that must be understood and addressed in a proposal. The evaluation factors section is particularly important for understanding how proposals will be assessed. Bidders must carefully review all applicable clauses and instructions to ensure compliance and to accurately prepare their offers.