16--Repair/Overhaul F-16 Radar Absorption Foam

The 162nd Fighter Wing AZANG intends to award a firm-fixed price sole source blanket purchase agreement to Texas Mgt Associates, Inc. (TMA) for repair/overhaul of F-16 radar absorption panels. The 162nd is attempting to find an "alternate source" experienced with the cleaning and maintenance of F-16 Radar Absorption Panels and to provide a recommended solution. Radar Absorption Panels installed on the F-16 Radar system are intended to provide protection for the radar system's microelectronics and to improve the target detection sensitivity (capability) of the radar system. There are six panels of differing shapes and sizes strategically placed around the front end of the radar processor package positioned in much the same manner as a jigsaw puzzle. Over time, the foam absorption material dries out losing its elasticity which results in cracks forming in the material and/or pieces of the foam becoming dislodged from the panels. In either case, the net result is degradation in the radar system protection characteristics which the absorption panels are intended to provide. The radar absorption panels are ERRC coded (XF3) identifying them as being expendable at the field level. This code allows the field level organizations to effect repairs if it is within their capability. However, in most cases, these attempted repairs are very limited in scope for the following reasons. The repair process is very detailed and requires specific procedures to be established and special handling processes to be in-place to be able to affect the proper repair of the panels. Additionally , the contours of the panels along with the absorption material, adhesive and paint are difficult to work with. Units must purchase a minimum quantity of paint, which only has a shelf life of six months. The repairs accomplished by a company should return the panels to a like new condition. Currently TMA is the only source approved by the System Program Office, Engineering section, at Hill AFB for contract repair. The SPO is approvals for repairs, refurbishment, and/or any deviations. The SPO does not have the organic capability to refurbish these panels because these panels were not originally designed to need replacement. Because the F-16 fleet service life has been extended and structural modifications have taken place, these panels have become brittle and are now beyond fair wear and tear and require maintenance actions. This notice is for informational purposes only; no formal solicitation will be issued as a result of this announcement. This is not a request for quote. This is a special notice prepared in accordance with the format in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 6.302- 1(a)(2)(iii), Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. However, any firm that believes it can meet this requirement may give written notification to the Contracting Officer within 3 days from the date of publication of this announcement. Supporting evidence must be in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to comply with the requirement. Responses received will be evaluated; however, a determination by the Government to compete the proposed procurement based on the responses to this notice is with awarding a fixed price type blanket purchase agreement to Texas Mgt Associates, Inc. for repair/overhaul services. Point of Contact for this requirement is Emily.guchereau@ang.af.mil. Contracting Office Address: 6620 S. Air Guard Way TUCSON AZ ANG BASE Tucson, Arizona 85706-6073 Place of Performance: 6620 S. Air Guard Way Tucson, Arizona 85706-6073 United States