20 -- Notice of intent to procure on a sole source basis

The Department of Commerce's NOAA office in Seattle intends to procure an upgrade to the Applanix POS MV system, specifically the V-4 version and related components, on a sole source basis. This upgrade is necessary because the Applanix systems are already installed on NOAA's fleet vessels, and the upgrade is proprietary, meaning only the original manufacturer, Applanix, can perform it. The primary attitude sensor is critical for the operation of the multibeam sonar used in coral reef mapping; failure of this sensor would render the sonar unusable and force the ship to return to port, making it essential to maintain system compatibility. The solicitation, issued under number WASC-05-0684 with NAICS code 334511, highlights that the government considers Applanix to be the only responsible vendor for this upgrade due to the proprietary nature and operational importance of the equipment. Although this is a sole source notice, the agency states that all responsible sources may submit bids, proposals, or quotations, which will be duly considered. The point of contact for this procurement is Shannon McIlroy, Purchasing Agent at NOAA, who can be reached via email or phone.