A--Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UVA) in Explosive Vapor Detection.

NA The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM), Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD), Humanitarian Demining Office proposes a non-competitive acquisition with Mechem Consultants (Pty) Limited, South Africa and the Council for S cientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa for the purpose of investigating the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) in Explosive Vapor Detection Systems. The primary task will be to investigate the concept of integrating the Mechem Explosive and Drug Detection System (MEDDS) with the Schiebel Camcopter UAV and using it as a platform for the aerial collection of vapor samples to detect the presence of landmines as well as determine areas that are clear of landmines. MEDDS is a trace chemical landmine detection system that interfaces the chemical concentration of the vapor from explosives with the nasal sensitivity of specially trained dogs by using specially-designed filters to collect vapor samples in suspected areas. The contract will inclu de an optional task to be exercised upon satisfactory results of the Phase 1 and will involve designing an improved Vapor Collection Payload and perform tests in real minefields. This procurement is limited to Mechem because this contractor is the only kn own source for this particular trace chemical landmine detection system. The duration of this effort is 12 months. The statutory authority for other than full and open competition is 10 USC 2304 (c)(1), Only One Responsible Source and no Other Supplies o r Services will Satisfy Agency Requirements. However, all responsible sources that can provide supporting data to demonstrate they can successfully provide the above trace chemical landmine detection system may submit a quote that shall be considered by t he agency. Offerors must possess technical expertise and/or experience with trace chemical landmine detection systems. Responses should be no longer than five (5) pages. Responses are to be received via email within 45 calendar days of the date of this n otice. All requests for further information must be in writing or via email, telephone requests for additional information will not be honored. You may forward responses to Ms. Ellen Morris, Contract Specialist at: contact@example.gov. Acknowledg ement of receipt will be issued. See Numbered Note 22.