Intent to Sole Source- Tuck-19 (HAIPE) TAC Kits
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 Department of the Air Force, 355th Communication Squadron, has issued an Intent to Sole Source to NexTech Solutions (NTS) for eight (8) TUCK-19 High Assurance Internet Protocol Encryptor (HAIPE) TAC Kits. These systems are crucial for establishing mobile Mission Planning Cells (MPC) to support expeditionary operations and deployments. This is not a solicitation for competitive proposals.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for eight HAIPE systems, specifically the TUCK-19, which must provide:
- Both NIPRNet and SIPRNet connectivity for mission-planning and execution products from austere global locations.
- Small-form-factor configuration for NIPRNet/SIPRNet services via U.S. Government transport providers.
- Minimum 8 NIPRNet and 8 SIPRNet ports per system.
- Ruggedized construction for environmental exposure.
- Internal battery power (MIL-STD radio batteries) and external AC power.
- Integrated crypto sled supporting small-form-factor encryption devices.
- Multiple dirty-internet integration options, including a 5G SIM card port and wired internet ingestion (e.g., Starshield).
- Single-person portability with no palletization required.
- Setup/teardown under 10 minutes. The TUCK-19 systems from NTS include proprietary software integration (MANTLE automation suite, virtualized routing, embedded HyperVisor) making them uniquely capable.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (Intent to Sole Source)
- Set-Aside: None (Sole source to NexTech Solutions, a large business)
- Response Due: June 10, 2026 (within 3 work days of publication)
- Published: June 5, 2026
- Product Service Code: 5810 (Communications Security Equipment And Components)
- Place of Performance: Tucson, AZ
Evaluation
The Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only NexTech Solutions under FAR 6.302-1, as it does not possess the data necessary to manufacture the item or procure it from other sources. All responsible sources may identify their interest and provide capability statements. Responses received within 3 work days will be considered, but a determination not to compete is solely at the Government's discretion. Source approval is required, and award will not be delayed pending new source approval.
Additional Notes
This notice serves as both a synopsis and an intent to sole-source. The 355th Wing previously awarded sole-source contracts to NTS via NASA SEWP. Future purchases will involve reassessment for open competition if multiple vendors can meet requirements.