[Protest of Air Force Solicitations for Various Types of Electronic Equipment]

A firm protested a number of solicitations issued by the Air Force to acquire various types of electronic equipment, contending that: (1) none of the specifications reflected the government's minimum needs, and they unduly restricted competition; and (2) the solicitations did not properly set forth salient characteristics as required when supplies are purchased on a brand name or equal basis. The protester contacted Air Force headquarters personnel and was told that the agency would consider the protest in more detail without prejudice to the protester's right to later file its protest with GAO. However, the protester did not file its protest with GAO within 10 working days after the Air Force denied its protest. Accordingly, the protest was dismissed as untimely filed.