Intent to Sole Source Cummins Inc.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO NEGOTIATE A SOLE-SOURCE CONTRACT The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Eastern Region Acquisition Division (ERAD), Norfolk Office, using the procedures set forth in FAR Part 13, intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with Cummins Inc., located 500 Jackson St., Columbus, IN 47201 for a Cummins brand QSK-38 Main Propulsion Diesel Engine for the NOAA Ship Nancy Foster. Cummins Inc. has no authorized resellers or distributors of this MPDE. The Cummins QSK-38 MPDE is the only replacement MPDE which is compatible with the current propulsion system's reduction gear without significant modification to the coupling and input shaft. As such, no other MPDE is compatible with the current main propulsion systems. Furthermore, the Cummins QSK-38 MPDE shares of parts, diagnostic equipment and specialty tools with the QSK-19 diesel generators presently on board. If another engine manufacturer were selected the ship would need to carry a complete set of additional spare parts, procure specialty tools, test equipment, and send engineering staff to training for that engine. The ship's automation and control system is currently designed to operate with Cummins engine control modules. Procurement of a different brand name MPDE would not be compatible with the current vessel automation system without a major redesign effort. Introduction of another manufacturer's engine would require the addition of specific data interface components, extensive re-programming to the automation system software and resubmission of the automation system changes to ABS for classification society approval. If NOAA were to proceed with a solicitation for new engines of a different brand name it could require ship modifications, additional ABS approvals, testing, sea trials, and crew training, all of which would result in substantial costs and delays resulting in significant mission impact and the vessel's inability to meet mission requirements. The North American Industry Classification Code (NAICS) for this acquisition is 336611, Ship Building and Repairing, with a business size standard of 1,250 employees. This is not a solicitation for competitive quotes. However, if any other interested party believes that it can meet the requirements, it may submit a statement of capabilities, which if timely received, will be considered by NOAA. A statement of capabilities must be received by 12:00 PM EST on Thursday, April 12, 2018. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement in the future. Evidence must be provided of ability to provide the required services. The capability statement and any other information furnished must be in writing and must contain material in sufficient detail to allow NOAA to determine if the party can meet all of the requirements. Capability statements and related materials must be e-mailed to Contract Specialist Alex Cooper at contact@example.gov by 12:00 PM EST on April 12, 2018.