Talos Linux FIPS Compliant Build and Support

Amendment / Modification

This amendment provides the questions and answers related to the solicitation.

Not specified, but the amendment's purpose is to provide Q&A.

This amendment does not appear to change proposal deadlines or submission requirements, but bidders should review the Q&A for any clarifications that may impact their proposals.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides clarification on a question related to the procurement of computers with a specific variation of Linux.

• Question: The government was asked if they require 50 computers with Linux preinstalled, or if they need Linux installed on 50 existing computers.
• Answer: The government is purchasing licenses and support for Linux, which will be installed on computers they already own.

This clarification indicates that the requirement is for software licenses and support, not for the acquisition of new hardware. Bidders should adjust their proposals accordingly to reflect this understanding of the requirement.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation, N0018926QL129, issued by NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Norfolk, is for Talos Linux FIPS Compliant Build and support services. The government intends to award a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract.

• Item 0001: 50 units of Talos Linux FIPS Compliant Build Nodes with a 12-month coverage period. This is a Firm Fixed Price arrangement.

• Item 0002: 1 unit of Enterprise Support (24/7) for Talos and Kubernetes with a 12-month coverage period. This is a Firm Fixed Price arrangement.

• The contract type is Firm Fixed Price.

• The period of performance for the coverage and support is 12 months for each item.

• The NAICS code is 518210, with a size standard of USD 40,000,000.00.

• Offer Due Date: 18 May 2026, 11:00 AM.

• Submission Method: Quotes must be submitted electronically via email to Alexandria McCune (alexandria.e.mccune.civ@us.navy.mil).

• Quote Content: Must include a current authorized reseller certification for all quoted brand-name items, a completed solicitation document with unit prices and extended totals, and a completed and signed page 1 of the solicitation and any amendments.

• Evaluation Criteria: The Government will award a contract to the responsible vendor whose offer is most advantageous, considering price and other factors. Award will be based on price, unless past performance information suggests otherwise. The government reserves the right to consider past performance, conduct price/past performance tradeoffs, and award to other than the lowest price quote. Quotes will only be accepted from authorized sellers of TALOS LINUX products and services.

• Questions Deadline: Questions regarding clarification of solicitation requirements must be received by 11 May 2026.

• This acquisition is set aside for Small Business.

• The solicitation incorporates FAR clauses related to small business programs, including "Postaward Small Business Program Rerepresentation."

• The solicitation incorporates FAR and DFARS clauses by reference and in full text, including those related to contract terms, conditions, and representations and certifications.

• Vendors must be authorized sellers of TALOS LINUX products and services.

• The government is conducting this procurement under FAR Part 12.

Justification for Brand Name (Simplified Procedures - MPT to < SAT)

This document justifies a brand name procurement for Talos Linux FIPS Compliant Build and included Enterprise Support (24/7) for Talos and Kubernetes. Competition is precluded in accordance with FAR 12.102(a) because no substitutes are available.

• Procurement of 50 Nodes of Talos Linux FIPS Compliant Build.

• Included Enterprise Support (24/7) for Talos and Kubernetes.

• The Talos Linux version must be FIPS-140-2 compliant, a mandatory requirement.

• The procurement is being solicited on a brand name basis from Sidero Labs.

• The document does not explicitly state contract type, period of performance, or estimated value, but implies simplified procedures for procurements at or below the Micro-Purchase Threshold (MPT).

• Not applicable, as this is a justification for brand name procurement, not a solicitation.

• Restricted to the original manufacturer, Sidero Labs, or authorized resellers.

• The Talos Linux OS is designed specifically for Kubernetes, offering optimal performance, security, and integration. Its immutable nature enhances security by preventing configuration drift.

• The purchase is driven by mission needs and is required to satisfy legal and policy-driven security standards, specifically FIPS 140-3 regulatory compliance.

• The purchase includes a comprehensive product support package for vendor expertise and risk mitigation.