USAFA Parachute Landing Assistants
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 U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) has issued a Special Notice in the form of a Notice of Intent to Sole Source for the procurement of Parachute Landing Assistants (PLA). The government intends to award a Firm Fixed Price Purchase Order to Plako, LLC, for 10 units of their unique laser-based device designed to aid parachute jumpers in developing landing skills. This opportunity is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside, with the sole source justification based on Plako, LLC being the only responsible source. Responses and capability statements are due by March 23, 2026, at 10:00 am MDT.
Scope of Work
This requirement is for the procurement of 10 units of the Parachute Landing Assistant (PLA). The PLA is an innovative, laser-based sensor system that provides audible warnings and data logging capabilities to assist jumpers in determining the optimal flare sequence during parachute landings. Key specifications include:
- A 32-bit micro-controller with a 120 Hz update rate.
- 8GB micro SD card for data logging.
- Rechargeable lithium battery providing 8 hours of operation.
- Class 1 laser with a total power of 1.3W and specific accuracy for altitude measurement. The devices will be utilized at the USAF Academy, CO.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Special Notice (Notice of Intent to Sole Source)
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price Purchase Order
- Anticipated Award Date: On or before August 1, 2026 (subject to funds availability)
- NAICS Code: 611620 (Size Standard: $9.0 million)
- Published Date: March 19, 2026
- Response Deadline: March 23, 2026, at 10:00 am MDT
Submission & Evaluation
This notice does not constitute a solicitation, and bids or quotes should not be submitted at this time. Interested concerns who believe they can provide the required Parachute Landing Assistant, demonstrating that competition would be advantageous to the Government, are invited to submit a capability statement. Responses and any questions must be submitted by the deadline.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
The opportunity is listed as a Total Small Business Set-Aside. The government's intent is to award a sole source contract to Plako, LLC, which is identified as a small business and the exclusive sales entity for the PLA. The sole source justification is based on 10 USC 2304(c)(1), citing only one responsible source being available.
Additional Notes
Contractors must have a current registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) at http://sam.gov/. Contact: Ronald Wilson (ronald.wilson.26@us.af.mil) or Wanda Farr (wanda.farr@us.af.mil).