(a) Contracts under the simplified acquisition threshold. The restrictions at 225.7004-2 do not apply to a contract or subcontract that does not exceed the simplified acquisition threshold.

(b) Buses. The restriction at 225.7004-2(a) does not apply in the following circumstances:

(1) Buses manufactured outside the national technology and industrial base are needed for temporary use because buses manufactured in the national technology and industrial base are not available to satisfy requirements that cannot be postponed. Such use may not, however, exceed the lead time required for acquisition and delivery of buses manufactured in the national technology and industrial base.

(2) The requirement for buses is temporary in nature. For example, to meet a special, nonrecurring requirement or a sporadic and infrequent recurring requirement, buses manufactured outside the national technology and industrial base may be used for temporary periods of time. Such use may not however, exceed the period of time needed to meet the special requirement.

(3) Buses manufactured outside the national technology and industrial base are available at no cost to the U.S. Government.

(c) Components for naval vessels. The restriction at 225.7004-2(b) does not apply to acquisition of spare or repair parts needed to support components for naval vessels manufactured outside the United States. Support includes the purchase of spare gyrocompasses, electronic navigation chart systems, steering controls, propulsion and machinery control systems, totally enclosed lifeboats, and welded shipboard anchor and mooring chain.

(d) Components for auxiliary ships. The restriction at 225.7004-2(c) does not apply to large medium-speed engines for icebreakers or special mission ships.

(e) Star trackers. The restriction at 225.7004-2(e) does not apply to acquisition programs that have received Milestone A approval as defined in 10 U.S.C. 4211 before October 1, 2021, as documented by the requiring activity official performing program management responsibilities. The contracting officer shall include the Milestone A approval documentation in the contract file.