Intent to Sole Source - Jimsphere Balloons

The United States Air Force is intending to sole source the procurement of Jimsphere High Resolution Wind Profiler balloons from Meteorological Products Incorporated. The balloons are required for the 309th Software Engineering Group (SWEG) 520AD program, which provides launch data for weather squadrons and launch customers. The Jimsphere balloons have advanced radiosonde technology and exterior nodules that allow for smooth interfacing with existing devices used by the 520AD program. • The procurement is for a specific brand-name item, Meteorological Products Incorporated Jimsphere weather balloons. • The balloons have a 2-meter diameter and are made of clear 1/2 mil polyester film. • The procurement is limited to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) due to the unique requirements of the 520AD program. • Market research has confirmed that Meteorological Products Incorporated is the only source for this specific brand-name item.