A--RS-68B RISK REDUCTION SUPPORT

NASA/MSFC has a requirement for concept development and risk reduction support forRS-68B engine.NASA/MSFC intends to purchase the items on a sole source basis from Pratt and WhitneyRocketdyne (PWR). PWR designed, developed, and manufactured the RS-68 for the DeltaProgram in the mid 1990's and owns proprietary information concerning its design anddevelopment. PWR has been responsible for the production, refurbishment, and improvementsof this engine with proven capability in solving technical and production problems,procurement of flight hardware and materials, and delivering engines. PWR is the onlycontractor with recent demonstrated performance and experience with major enginedevelopment (i.e. DDT&E with RS-68, RS-83, RS-84, and COBRA). The experience held by PWRis paramount and any attempt by another contractor would result in a significant learningcurve, substantial duplication of cost to the Government that is not expected to berecovered through competition and unacceptable delays in fulfilling the agencysrequirements. The Government does not intend to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. See Note26.Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform theeffort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. local timeon September 12, 2008. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for thepurpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and opencompetition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretionof the government.Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice.All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency.An Ombudsman has been appointed. See NASA Specific Note "B".Any referenced notes may be viewed at the following URLs linked below.