HPE Nimble Storage dHCI

NOTICE OF INTENT TO AWARD A SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT
The Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWC-AD), Patuxent River, MD intends to issue a sole source award utilizing Simplified Acquisition Procedures in accordance with FAR 13.501 and FAR 6.302-1(c) to HPE for the procurement of a replacement (HPE Nimble) for the EOL system (Datrium.) After conducting research to choose a replacement (HPE Nimble) for the EOL system (Datrium), we evaluated a demo HPE system in our lab to determine feasibility and ability to meet program requirements. The testing was completed in the FY21Q3 and a full capability system for our lab was purchased to complete testing. However, supply chain issues severely delayed the delivery of the system until November 2021. The installation and further software testing of the system completed December 2021. The full production system hardware was specified and initial RFQ followed. Given the supply chain issues that are continuing with HPE (and computer equipment in general), and the urgent need to provide this capability to the fleet, we feel the need to get this system on contract as soon as we can so ensure that delivery occurs with enough time to configure it before full system delivery. Additionally, this contract must have a DPAS rating assigned to it. The DPAS rating will allow HPE to prioritize our purchase over any commercial sale and allow us to stay on schedule. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals and a written solicitation will not be issued; however, responsible sources may submit a capability statement, prior to the posted response date, which will be considered by NAWCAD. This notice of intent is for information purposes only. A determination not to compete this proposed contract is based on market research and is solely within the discretion of the Government. Based upon the Market research, the Government is using the policies contained in FAR Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial items, in its solicitation for the described supplies or services. Interested persons may identify to the Contracting Officer their interest and capability to satisfy the Government’s requirement by 2:00 PM (EST) on 24 June 2022. Responses to this notice must be sent to basirat.d.shonekan-umaru.civ@us.navy.mil