--NOTICE OF INTENT TO AWARD ON A SOLE SOURCE BASIS

The U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity plans to negotiate a sole source contract with Hewlett-Packard Company to provide non-personal support for the U.S. Army Medical Command Network Operating and Messaging System (NOS/EM) using Microsoft Windows and Exchange. This contract is critical to maintaining the continuity and deployment readiness of the USAMITC mission-critical network and messaging system. The procurement is conducted under the sole source authority of FAR 6.302-1, meaning it is not open for competitive bidding. However, responses from other responsible vendors received before the close of business on August 19, 2004, will be considered if they demonstrate the capability to provide the required services. Interested parties who believe they can fulfill these requirements are encouraged to submit proof of capabilities and contact the designated Contract Specialist for further information. This action ensures uninterrupted support of the network operating system critical to the mission while adhering to procurement regulations that allow sole source contracting under specific circumstances. The notice emphasizes the urgency and necessity of maintaining operational continuity through this sole source award.