U -- Commercial Air Services

The Naval Air Systems Command plans to negotiate and issue a sole source modification to extend contract N00019-02-D-3158 for an additional 12 months, divided into four three-month options. This extension is intended to provide various Commercial Air Services to support fleet combat readiness training until a new competitively awarded contract is in place. The services include aircraft with capabilities such as carrying external pods for Electronic Warfare and target towing, along with internal military operations like Air Intercept Control and Electronic Combat. The extension would run from October 31, 2007, through October 30, 2008, if all options are exercised. Airborne Tactical Advantage Company, the current contractor, is considered the only source capable of providing these critical services due to the necessary ongoing coordination with government personnel, the specialized aircraft and equipment involved, and the short timeframe required. This modification is being pursued under a sole source authority per FAR 6.302-1, and this notice does not constitute a request for competitive proposals. The contract supports U.S. Navy fleet readiness at Patuxent River, Maryland, with primary contacts available for further information included in the announcement.