High Assurance Computer Systems Security
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has issued a sole source modification to Analex Corporation (dba Arcfield) for High Assurance Computer Systems Security support. This action extends the current contract (Task Order N0017321F2015) by six months, from March 24, 2026, to September 23, 2026, to ensure continuity of critical services for NRL's Center for High Assurance Computer Systems (CHACS), Code 5540.
Scope of Work
This modification provides comprehensive scientific, engineering, technical, and project management support to CHACS. The extension is a bridge action to prevent a work stoppage and maintain essential operations until a competitive follow-on requirement (N0017325RML01) can be fully recompeted and awarded.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sole Source Modification (Award Notice)
- Original Contract: Task Order N0017321F2015 under MAC N0017316D2009
- Duration: 6-month extension (March 24, 2026 – September 23, 2026)
- Set-Aside: Other Than Full and Open Competition (FAR 6.302-1)
- Funding: Incrementally funded with Fiscal Year 2026 Research, Development, Test and Evaluation (RDT&E) funds.
- Published: April 15, 2026
Justification & Evaluation
The sole source action is justified under FAR 6.302-1 (Only One Responsible Source) due to the need to prevent unacceptable delays and disruptions to critical programs. Analex (Arcfield) was identified as the only responsible source capable of providing the specialized services without significant cost and schedule risks, leveraging their unique expertise and assembled team. A pre-solicitation notice posted on SAM.gov on February 23, 2026, received no responses. Fair and reasonable cost will be determined using an Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE) and comparison to historical prices, with certified cost or pricing data required.
Additional Notes
This bridge action is crucial to avoid a lapse in support for CHACS. The government is actively working towards awarding a competitive follow-on contract and aims to expedite future recompetes to mitigate potential delays.