SOLE SOURCE: Vaisala Replacement parts for the NOAA/NWS National Logistics Support Center in Grandview, MO.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking to negotiate and award a purchase order on a sole source basis with Vaisala for replacement radiosondes. The radiosondes are instruments on weather balloons that collect critical atmospheric variables, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and winds at various altitudes, which are essential for weather forecasts and weather models. The replacement parts will be delivered to the National Logistics Support Center in Grandview, MO. • The sole source determination is based on NOAA's Sole Source Justification. • Vaisala is the only manufacturer of the Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) for the Automatic Radiosonde Observing Systems (AROS). • The order will help the AROS system maintain accurate barometric pressure readings for radiosonde weather balloon launches. • Firms that believe they can fully meet the government's requirements may submit substantiating documentation or a request for additional information in writing to the Contract Specialist within 15 days after publication of this pre-solicitation notice.