Notice of Intent to Sole Source to Collins Aerospace

The Department of Defense, through the Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, intends to award a sole source simplified acquisition purchase order to Collins Aerospace for four high-speed modems, part number 822-3709-001, which serve as RF modems with audio interfaces. These units will be tested as replacements within the Blue Force Tracking Network (BFTN) system, specifically substituting the current HSM-2050 modem. Each system requires two modems, and two systems will be tested, totaling four units. Past market research conducted between 2011 and 2013 identified limited options that met the MILSPEC requirements, with the HSM-2050 selected initially due to its dual HF and UHF networking capabilities. While a third modem, the Rapid M, was tested, it failed to meet functional requirements, positioning the HSM-2051 as the preferred candidate for replacement due to its compatibility in form, fit, and function. The BFTN system is currently in the sustainment phase of its lifecycle, which restricts modifications to those not involving significant engineering configuration changes or additional testing, effectively narrowing replacement options to products like the HSM-2051 modem. The sole source procurement reflects this need for seamless integration without major system redesigns. The contract is managed by the Department of Defense office located in San Diego, California, with James K. Blake serving as the contract specialist and primary point of contact.