6.302-6
National security
FAR 6.302-6 permits limiting competition only when disclosure of requirements would compromise national security, but requires written justification and seeking as much competition as practicable.
Overview
FAR 6.302-6 allows agencies to limit competition in contracting when disclosing their needs would compromise national security. This exception to full and open competition is strictly limited to situations where revealing requirements would violate security protocols or otherwise endanger national interests. The regulation clarifies that this authority cannot be used solely because a contract is classified or involves access to classified information. Agencies must still seek competition to the maximum extent practicable and must document their justification and approval for using this exception, as outlined in FAR 6.303 and 6.304. Additionally, agencies must comply with synopsis requirements in FAR 5.202(a)(1).