NOAA’s National Weather Service intends to negotiate a sole-source, firm-fixed unit price contract with Kaymont for an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity order of up to 94,800 GP20 aerological sounding balloons. Kaymont is identified as the only vendor able to meet the NWS specification and the required production rate of 4,680 balloons per month with a 90-day lead time. The contract is being pursued under simplified acquisition procedures using other than full and open competition. The justification for this sole-source action will be posted within 14 days of award.

NOAA is conducting market research to identify vendors capable of supplying up to 18,960 General Purpose aerological sounding balloons annually to support national weather service operations. These balloons, which carry critical weather instrumentation, must be launched from all 102 NWS Upper-Air sites across the country and perform reliably under diverse weather conditions. The performance of these balloons is essential for accurate atmospheric data used in weather forecasts and aviation support. Interested vendors must review the attached specifications and confirm their capability to provide the supplies.