B16 PLC Replacement

The U.S. Air Force, through the Kansas Air National Guard at McConnell Air Force Base, is conducting a sources sought announcement for the replacement of obsolete programmable logic controller (PLC) systems in Building 16, which houses three critical generators. This pre-solicitation notice is exclusively for market research to identify qualified small business sources capable of performing the work, with a formal solicitation to follow. The scope involves replacing seven PLCs and five I/O modules, transitioning from Modbus to Ethernet communications, updating human-machine interface (HMI) programming, validating system sequences using a load bank, and providing on-site operator training. An optional scope exists to eliminate a single point of failure by installing three independent master controllers for each generator, with the government reserving the unilateral right to exercise this option at bid opening. All responders must demonstrate capability through a completed Sources Sought Response Form and must possess bonding capability. The contract is set aside for small businesses under NAICS 238210, with a size standard of $19 million in annual receipts; should adequate small business competition not materialize, the solicitation may be opened as unrestricted. The prime contractor is mandatorily required to subcontract with 3E Company, the designated OEM regional representative for Kohler, due to proprietary equipment in the generator farm that only 3E can service or access. Compliance with extensive environmental, safety, and security protocols is non-negotiable, including adherence to FAR clauses on hazardous material identification, pollution prevention, and environmental management systems, as well as McConnell AFB’s Hazardous Materials Management Program. Contractors must submit Safety Data Sheets, hazardous material inventories, and a confined space entry permit with certified safety briefings before work begins. All personnel requiring base access must obtain clearance at least five days in advance and meet Real ID, license, registration, and insurance requirements. Site inspections are mandatory prior to submission, and no price or schedule adjustments will be permitted for site conditions discovered during inspection. Offerors must also certify their size status and socioeconomic designations, submit a CAGE code, and ensure SAM.gov registration is current. Submissions must be sent by June 3, 2026, to the designated email address with the exact subject line, and no formal pricing or contract value is available at this stage as this notice does not constitute a solicitation for award.