The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Patuxent River, MD intends to negotiate and award a sole source contract to Diamond J Incorporated, Wichita, KS, to modify 338 each triple tachometers. The USMC CH-46E helicopter fleet is currently flying without an engine overspeed protection system. For that reason, PMA-226, Cherry Point, NC, has initiated a program to install an electrical overspeed system that utilizes a new triple tachometer to monitor engine power turbine speeds(Nf)and aircraft rotor head speeds (Nr). In the event of a flex shaft failure which causes an immediate engine over speed condition, the new gauge will send an electrical signal to the engine P3 solenoid which will in turn govern the engine back to a ground idle limit. Upon successful EMI testing, prototype testing etc. NAVAIR procured 338 production triple tachometers p/n 64100-003 from Diamond J Incorporated of Wichita, Kansas under Contract N00019-06-C-0116. Upon conclusion of the first production install, a USMC CH-46E squadron identified a unique visual problem with the design undiscovered during testing that causes the pilot to lose sight of the Nr needle while operating on night vision goggles. This inability for the pilot to quickly scan the gauges is a flight hazard that can result in a rotor head overspeed condition that must be rectified before proceeding with installs. As the original equipment manufacturer, Diamond J Inc, is the only company that has the ability to modify the triple tachometers, p/n 64100-003, to the upgraded version, p/n 64100-003 Rev A, to mitigate this newly discovered problem. This upgrade will consist of a new needle stack up and associated internal changes as well as a new face plate to enhance pilot gauge scans. The authority permitting other than full and open competition is Title 10, U.S. Code 2304(c)(1), as implemented by Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-1, only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. Deliveries shall commence 5 months after contract award and shall continue at a rate of 50 units per month. Note 22 applies.

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