Under the authority of FAR 6.302-1, the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering (RDEC) Acquisition Center, Natick Contracting Division (NDC), Kansas Street, Natick, MA on behalf of the U. S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, Natick, MA intends to negotiate and award a Contract on a sole source basis with Wilcox Industries Corp., 25 Piscataqua Drive, Newington, NH 03801. This will be for the purchase of (150) L2 G04 Ratchet Strap Bracket (p/n 28300G04B), (200) L2 G05 3-Hole MICH Helmet Bracket w/Universal NVG Mount (p/n 28300G05), (125) L2 G05B 3-Hole MICH Helmet Bracket w/o Universal NVG Mount (p/n 28300G05) and (150) Universal NVG Mount (p/n 28300G01). Wilcox Industries is currently the only manufacturer of the NVG accessories listed above that are compatible with the operators current night vision goggles and existing L2 Series NVG mounts and accessories. These components are unique in that they make up a system that provides two modes of operation. The first mode allows the Universal NVG Mount to break away from the base under a stressed condition, such as when prompted by interference during fast roping, maritime operations, hard impact or when entering or exiting mobility platforms. Without the Wilcox breakaway feature, the potential to induce neck injury is increased. The second mode allows the Universal NVG Mount to securely lock the mount to the base. Through Market Research it was determined that only a small number of companies offer an NVG head mounting system. Of these companies Wilcox is the only system that demonstrates compatibility with the night vision goggles in use or the legacy components/accessories. It is also the lightest system, most adjustable and made from proven material. Further, no other head mounting system is shown to meet USSOCOM stringent operational and environmental requirements. Purchasing an unproven system would create compatibility issues which will prevent an operator from utilizing NVGs degrading mission performance and safety of the operator. Any firm that believes it can meet this requirement may give written notification to the Contracting Officer within 5 days from the date of publication of this announcement. Supporting evidence must be in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to comply with the requirements, yet must be limited to 2 pages. Responses received will be evaluated; however, a determination by the Government to compete the proposed procurement based on the responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. If no responses are received, NCD will proceed with awarding a firm fixed price purchase order to Wilcox Industries. Nothing herein should be misconstrued as a request for proposal. No solicitation document is available. Any Questions concerning this acquisition may be addressed to the above address, Attention: Mr. Nate Jordan or by email to:
[email protected]. This synopsis expires August 21th, 2009 at 10:00am.