THIS IS NOT A SYNOPSIS TO ADVERTISE A SOLICITATION THAT IS READY FOR RELEASE, rather the purposes are (a) to determine whether there are a sufficient number of responsible sources and (b) to conduct market research. The US Coast Guard is seeking ways to covertly mark a target craft to increase its detection range for later relocation. Most commonly, targets would be marked by aircraft (fixed wing or helicopter) with limited fuel capacity and no means to conduct a boarding. Target relocation would be done by surface vessels, but sometimes from aircraft, and may need to be done at night. Marker systems must be non-toxic, eye-safe and difficult for personnel aboard the target craft to detect, cover up, or remove. Preferred candidates include particles or dyes that are invisible to the naked eye, but are detectable by radar or near-to-mid wavelength IR sensors. Ideally they should be self-luminescing (for 4-12+ hours), or detectable under ambient night time conditions. (Artificial illumination using a tuned spotlight or eye-safe laser may be considered, but is not preferred due to range and sweep width limitations). Companies or subject matter experts having existing systems or proposing systems requiring limited development with any of these capabilities are encouraged to submit responses to this announcement. Please describe succinctly any marking dyes or compounds that meet these requirements. If artificial illumination is required, describe the proposed light sources. Include cost information for commercially available systems, or estimate development costs.The sole purpose of this announcement is to identify existing products or systems with the described capabilities. Offerors shall provide the following: 1. Capability Statement addressing the above areas (limit 3 pages). 2. Company history and contact information (limit 1 page). This announcement is not a research or development project. The purpose of this announcement is NOT to “develop” or evaluate potential new products, services or facilities, or to improve existing facilities for the purpose of meeting the specific performance capabilities or objectives. At this stage, the Government has no intention to further develop or produce any equipment from the information received. Information collected through this announcement will be reviewed by individuals from the USCG. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code for this procurement is 325998. All responses are required by November 2, 2003. Responses may be forwarded electronically to Joyce P. Overton, Contract Specialist, Phone 860-441-2886, Fax 860-441-2888, Email
[email protected]. Electronic responses are preferred, but company brochures or product sheets are also acceptable. Technical questions may be addressed to Mr. Robert Sedat, Phone 860-441-2684 or Email
[email protected]. Please identify if you are large or small business in your response. NOTE: Actual proposals are not being solicited at this time for the above requirement, and no contract will be awarded in response to this "Sources Sought" and "Market Research Synopsis".