--Technical Services of Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University (VPI &SU) for unique software and a ballistics modeling system for analysis of data related to ballistics testing associated with body armor.

The US Army Research Development and Engineering Command (USA RDEC), Natick Contract Division, in support of the U.S. Army Soldier and Biological Chemical Command (USA SBCCOM), intends to conduct negotiations and award a purchase order to Virginia Po lytechnic Institute & State University (VPI & SU) on the basis of other than full and open competition in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation part 6.302-1. This acquisition is for the procurement of technical services from VPI & SU’s Prof essor Romesh Batra. Dr. Batra has excellent achievements in research and teaching to include membership on the National Research Council’s (NRC) panel on Armor & Armaments to review the performance of the Weapon’s Directorate of the Army Researc h Laboratory in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, membership on the NRC’s panel on Survivability and Lethality Directorate (2002-2005) and work in penetration mechanics for which he was recognized by the membership in the NRC panels. He has developed uniq ue software and a ballistic modeling system that will be used to establish a complete database with the capability of analyzing and updating a vast amount of data associated with various designs and materials used in the Interceptor Outer Tactical Vest (OT V) and the Small Arms Protective Inserts (SAPI). THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS. However, the Government will consider all quotations received within seven (7) days after date of publication of this announcement. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed purchase order based upon responses is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Interested pa rties may identify their interest and capability to respond to this requirement to the U. S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command, Natick Contracting Division, ATTN: AMSRD-ACC-NS/Peggy Dube, Natick, MA 01760-5011 no later than 5:00 p.m. EST on 11 March 2004. Inquiries may be made via e-mail to contact@example.gov. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. See FBO Note 22.