JOINT STARS PRODUCTION SYSTEM

It is the Government's intent to negotiate with Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Integrated Systems Sector, Airborne Ground Surveillance and Battle Management Systems, PO Box 9650, Melbourne, FL 32902-9650 for Lot XI of the E-8C Production Program. During Lot XI the Contractor will fabricate, integrate, test and deliver one (1) Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) E-8C System, and provide initial spares and associated data. Northrop Grumman is currently the incumbent contractor. Statutory Authority is 10 USC 2304(C)(1) as implemented by FAR 6.302-1 "Only one responsible source." It is considered that only Northrop Grumman has the requisite management, technical expertise, Joint STARS expertise, and resources to accomplish within the current schedule and budget constraints of the E-8C Lot XI production effort. An Acquisition Ombudsman, Colonel Joseph P. Maryeski, Director, Commander's Staff, has been appointed to hear concerns from offerors or potential offerors during proposal development. You should only contact the Ombudsman with issues or problems you cannot satisfactorily resolve with the program manager and/or contracting officer. The Ombudsman role is to hear concerns, issues, and recommendations and communicate these to the appropriate government personnel. The Ombudsman will maintain strict confidentiality if desired. The Ombudsman does not evaluate proposals or participate in source selection. You can contract the Ombudsman at +1 (555) 000-0000. See Notes 22 and 26.