84 -- CLOTHING, INDIVIDUAL EQUIPMENT AND INSIGNIA The U. S. Army Natick Research & Development Enterprise at the Soldier Systems Biological and Chemical Command, Natick, MA is conducting a market investigation to identify lighter weight, less bulky rope rappel systems capable of fulfilling the Army's requirements. The U.S. Army is interested in locating firms with capabilities to provide lighter weight, less bulky rope rappel systems (Micro Rappel System (MRS)). The MRS must consist of a rappel harness, rope, deployment bag, descender, ascender, and carabiner. The MRS rappel harness must have stowable leg straps and be usable as a belt as well as for rappelling. It must fit the 5th through 95th percentile male and female soldier. The MRS rope must be not more than 5 millimeters in diameter, have a tensile strength in excess of 3,000 pounds, and have an outer covering with an abrasion resistance equal to or greater than standard rappel ropes. The MRS deployment bag must attach to the MRS rappel harness or to an external portion of a soldier's loadbearing equipment with a quick release that can be activated without removing the harness or load bearing equipment. The MRS deployment bag must hold at least 150 feet of rappel rope and allow deployment of the rope from one end (allowing use of the full length of the rope) or from the middle of the rope (allowing the rope to be doubled to increase its strength). The MRS descender and ascender must permit soldiers to safely and efficiently descend and/or ascend the small diameter rope used with the system and performance must be equal to or better than that of standard descenders and ascenders when used with standard rope. The MRS must provide military forces with an emergency life support capability for descent from steep terrain or man made structures (e.g. buildings). Interested sources must, within thirty (30) days following the publication of this synopsis, respond with information on their product(s). Interested sources shall include information detailed in CBD Note 25 regarding a firm's experience, personnel, and facilities. Information should include product cost, literature and illustrations, relevant company background/ experience, and a sample. Firms responding shall indicate whether or not they are a small business. The size standard for this industry (3949) is 500 employees. Any information submitted will not be returned. If a firm chooses to submit samples, no payment will be made by the Government for such samples. Responses to this notice are to be sent to Mr. Alan Goldberg, U. S. Army Natick Research & Development Enterprise, ATTN: PM-ESS North, Natick, MA 01760. This notice is for market research only. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS. No solicitation document exists. The information received under this announcement may be used to purchase micro rappel systems for Government testing and/or prepare a solicitation package for micro rappel systems. See Numbered Note(s) 25.***** Posted 02/23/99 (W-SN301122).

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