The Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWCCD) is issuing a combined synopsis/solicitation primarily for a software maintenance and technical support contract with Rexel, focusing on Rockwell Automation software and hardware. The procurement is justified under FAR Part 13.106-1(b) due to the uniqueness of the required services. This announcement invites interested parties to submit capabilities statements by May 14, 2025, though competitive quotes are not being solicited. The contract includes services such as 24/7 technical support, field service, and an annual repair agreement limit, essential for maintaining certification of equipment. The contractor must provide product support across numerous Rockwell Automation product families and specific licenses listed in the solicitations. Key qualifications include being the original manufacturer or authorized distributor. The notice details the delivery schedule, inspection requirements, and various clauses applicable to the contract, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations. This solicitation aims to secure necessary ongoing support for critical operational software and hardware systems, demonstrating the government's reliance on specialized vendors for maintaining technological capabilities.
The NSWCCD SAP Non-Competitive Procurement Justification Memo outlines the justification for a non-competitive procurement to obtain software maintenance and technical support for Rockwell Automation systems. The acquisition will be sourced exclusively from Rexel, the sole authorized local distributor of Rockwell Automation, as determined necessary based on FAR guidelines. The contract, lasting one year, includes 24/7 technical support, software upgrades, 40 hours of field support, and hardware repair allowances, vital for compliance with IT requirements and improving facility reliability.
The memorandum explains that Rockwell Automation is the only provider of the required support, as their software is proprietary and only they can upgrade licenses. Alternative methods, such as purchasing new licenses or different software, would lead to excessive costs exceeding $75,000 and would not ensure the same level of operational efficiency. The current software is integral to maintaining the Legacy Control Centers, reinforcing the necessity for keeping the maintenance agreement with Rexel. The memo serves to justify the lack of competition under government procurement regulations, emphasizing that the unique nature of the services and the established exclusivity of the supplier warrants a sole-source acquisition approach.