Satellite-Tracked Surface Drifting Buoys (“drifters”)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued this combined synopsis and solicitation under identifier WC-133R-16-RQ-0785 for the procurement of satellite-tracked surface drifting buoys, known as drifters. This requirement supports the Global Drifter Program (GDP) and the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) by establishing Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) for the manufacturing of these instruments. The acquisition is classified under NAICS 334511 for Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing and PSC 20. The solicitation is designated as a Small Business Administration (SBA) set-aside.

The scope of work involves providing drifters compatible with both Argos and Iridium telecommunications systems. While the GDP is transitioning to Iridium as its primary provider, the agency requires the option to purchase either system through the duration of the resulting BPAs. Contractors must provide separate pricing for both Argos and Iridium configurations for each line item. Performance standards for these instruments include a minimum expected average drogue life of 200 calendar days, with a target goal of 270 calendar days. Failure to maintain the 200-day minimum average may impact a contractor's eligibility for future orders under the agreements.

The response deadline for this solicitation is August 11, 2016. Performance is located within the United States, and Kevin J. Buum serves as the primary point of contact. The solicitation includes three attachments: the main solicitation document and two additional supplemental files, all originally posted on August 4, 2016. Clarifications regarding telecommunications transitions and drogue life expectations were incorporated into the notice on August 10, 2016.