Attachment_11_-_NQPD_10-01D_(BB512700).pdf

INCH-POUND

NQ/PD 10-01D

04 Mar 2014

SUPERSEDES

NQ/PD 10-01 C

26 Nov 2013

PURCHASE DESCRIPTION

BODY ARMOR, NAVAL SECURITY FORCES VEST

This purchase description (PD) is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the Department of Defense (DOD). Recommended improvements, simplifications, or reductions in paperwork are encouraged and should be directed to the preparing activity.

1. SCOPE

1.1 Scope. This purchase description covers the requirements for a Naval Security Forces Vest (NSFV) system consisting of a base vest and modular components for tailoring protection levels to defeat multiple ballistic and fragmentation hazards while performing security and Anti- Terrorism/Force Protection (AT/FP) duties and manage armor weight. The NSFV is a critical safety item. This specification delineates system, subsystem, component, and subcomponent level performance requirements to accomplish the end item body armor performance (see paragraph 6.1).

1.2 Classification. Body armor, Naval Security Forces Vest components; base vest assembly, yoke and collar assembly and enhanced small arms protective inserts (ESAPI; CO/PD 04-19) shall be one type in seven sizes. Body armor, Navy Security Forces Vest will be issued separately as two subsystems: the NSFV subsystems consisting of the base vest and the ESAPI subsystem, to be issued separately as follows:

Beneficial comments, recommendations, additions, deletions, clarifications, etc. and any data that may improve this document should be sent to: Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, ATTN: SEA 05P14, 1333 Isaac Hull Avenue, SE, Stop 5160, Washington Navy Yard DC 20376-5160 or emailed to commandstandards@navsea.navy.mil, with the subject line “Document Comment-Body Armor”. Since contact information can change, you may want to verify the currency of this address information using the ASSIST Online database at http://assist.daps.dla.mil/.

CPrestipino Typewritten Text

CPrestipino Typewritten Text

70Z08418QBB512700

Attachment 11

A) The Naval Security Forces Vest (NSFV) subsystem; consisting of the base vest assembly, yoke, and collar assembly.

B) The Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI) subsystem; consisting of a set of

ESAPI in the similar size as the NSFV. For NSFV sizes of X-Large and larger, X-Large ESAPI shall be used.

COMPONENT SIZES

Base Vest Assembly 7 sizes: X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, XXX-Large Yoke and Collar Assembly 7 sizes: X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, XXX-Large Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert 5 sizes: X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 General. The documents listed in this section are specified in sections 3 and 4 of this purchase description. This section does not include documents cited in other sections of this specification or recommended for additional information or as examples. While every effort has been made to ensure the completeness of this list, document users are cautioned that they must meet all specified requirements, whether or not they are listed.

2.2 Government Documents.

2.2.1 Specifications, standard, and handbooks. The following specifications, standards, and handbooks form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues of these documents are those listed in the solicitation or contract.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SPECIFICATIONS

MIL-DTL-32075 - Label: For Clothing, Equipage, and Tentage (General Use) MIL-PRF-5038 - Tape, Textile and Webbing, Textile, Reinforcing

Nylon MIL-PRF-63460 - Lubricant, Cleaner and Preservative for Weapons and Weapons Systems (Metric) CO/PD 04-19 - Enhanced, Small Arms Protective Inserts (ESAPI)

FQ/PD 07-05 - Body Armor, Multiple Threat / Interceptor, Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) A-A-55301 - Webbing, Textile Textured or Multi-Filament A-A-55126 - Fastener Tape, Hook and Pile, Synthetic MIL-W-17337 - Webbing, Textile, Woven Nylon A-A-59826 - Thread, Nylon MIL-DTL-508 - Cloth, Oxford, Nylon, 3 Ounce MIL-C-7020 - Cloth, Parachute, Nylon Rip-Stop and Twill Weave

MIL-STD-810 - Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests

MIL-STD-130 - Identification Marking of U.S. Military Property MIL-E-20652 - Eyelets, Metallic, Rolled Flange Type; and Eyelet

Washer

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/ or from the Standardization Document Order Desk, 700 Robbins Avenue, Building 4D, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094).

2.2.2 Other Government documents, drawings, and publications. The following other Government documents, drawings, and publications form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues are those cited in the solicitation.

2.3 Non-government publications. The following documents forms a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues of the documents which are those cited in the solicitation or contract.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF TEXTILE CHEMISTS AND COLORISTS (AATCC)

AATCC 8 - Colorfastness to Crocking; AATCC Crockmeter

Method AATCC 15 - Colorfastness to Perspiration AATCC 16 - Colorfastness to Light AATCC 22 - Water Repellency; Spray Test AATCC 61 - Colorfastness to Laundering, Home and

Commercial: Accelerated AATCC 70 - Water Repellency: Tumble Jar Dynamic

Absorption Test AATCC 96 - Dimensional Changes in Commercial Laundering of

Woven and Knitted Fabrics Except Wool AATCC 118 - Oil Repellency: Hydrocarbon Resistance Test AATCC 119 - Color Change Due to Flat Abrasion (Frosting):

Screen Wire Method AATCC 127 - Water Resistance: Hydrostatic Pressure Test AATCC 135 - Dimensional Changes of Fabrics after Home

Laundering Related to ISO 3759 AATCC Evaluation Procedure 1 - Gray Scale for Color Change AATCC Evaluation Procedure 2 - Gray Scale for Staining AATCC Evaluation Procedure 8 - 9-Step Chromatic Transference Scale

(Copies of these documents are available from www.aatcc.org or the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, P.O. Box 122215, Research Triangle Park, NC 227709-2215.)

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS (ASTM)

ASTM D204 - Sewing Threads ASTM D1141 - Standard Practice for the Preparation of Substitute

Ocean Water ASTM D1388 - Stiffness of Fabrics ASTM D1683 - Failure in Sewn Seams of Woven Fabrics ASTM D1693 - Standard Practice for Stitches and Seams ASTM D1777 - Standard Method for Testing Thickness of Textile

Materials ASTM D3575 - Materials, Flexible Cellular, Made From Olefin

Polymers ASTM D3776 - Mass Per Unit Area (Weight) of Woven Fabric ASTM D3884 - Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics, (Rotary

Platform, Double Head Method) ASTM D3886 - Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics, (Inflated

Diaphragm) ASTM D4485 - Standard Specification for Performance of Engine

Oils ASTM D5034 - Breaking Force and Elongation of Textile Fabrics

(Grab Test) ASTM D6193 - Standard Practice for Stitches & Seam ASTM D9413 - Standard Test Method for Flame Resistance of T

Textiles (Vertical Test) ASTM G21 - Test Methods for Determining Resistance of

Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi

(Copies of these documents are available online at www.astm.org or from ASTM International, 100 Bar Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.)

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE (ANSI)

ANSI/ASQ Z1.4-2003 - Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspection by Attributes

(Copies of this document are available online at www.asq.org or from the American Society for Quality, P.O. Box 3005, Milwaukee, WI, 53201-3005.)

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF JUSTICE (NIJ)

NIJ 0101.06 - Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor

(Copies of this document are available online at http://www.justnet.org/ or from NLECTC- National, 2277 Research Blvd., M/S 8J, Rockville, MD 20850.)

2.4 Order of precedence. Unless otherwise noted herein or in the contract, in the event of a conflict between the text of this document and the references cited herein, the text of this document takes precedence. Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

3. REQUIREMENTS

3.1 First article, performance based qualification, and conformance inspection. When specified, the contractor shall furnish complete body armor, NSFV, representing full production quality, which shall be subjected to first article inspection, performance based qualification, and conformance inspection (see 4.2, 4.3 and 6.2).

3.2 Materials and components. The materials and components shall conform to applicable specifications, standards, and patterns required herein.

3.2.1 Cloth, outer and inner shell. The cloths(s) utilized to fabricate the outer shell and inner shall be made from lightweight, durable, synthetic cloths meeting the characteristics outlined in Appendix A, TABLE I-A when tested as specified in 4.5 (Appendix B, TABLE I- B). The color shall be black.

3.2.1.1. Weight of finished fabric. The weight of the finished outer shell fabric shall be no greater than 12.0 oz/yd2. The weight of the finished inner shell fabric shall be no greater than 9.0 oz/yd2.

3.2.2 Cloth Collar and Front Vest Inner Liner Material. The material next to the skin (paragraphs 3.3.2.2, 3.3.2.8) shall be highly abrasion resistant, non-abrasive to skin, pliable to enable collar to roll down, resistant to oil penetration and dry rot and able to remove oils when cleaned, such as, MIL-DTL-508, Oxford, Nylon, 3 ox Type I, Class 3. The color shall be black.

3.2.3 Cloth ballistic panel cover. The ballistic cover shall be water proof and seam sealed Nylon Rip-Stop. The color shall be black.

3.2.4 Webbing and tapes. Webbings and tapes shall be heat cut smooth with no burrs or residual melt. The color of all webbings and tapes shall be black. Webbings and tapes shall conform to the following requirements:

a) 1.0- inch Webbing- A-A-55301, Type III.

b) 1.5- inch Webbing- A-A-55301, Type VI. Producer colored, texture yarns may be used. When used, thickness shall be 0.39 in. (min);

weight shall be .90 oz/yd (min).

c) 2.0- inch Webbing- MIL-W-17337. Producer colored, textured yarns may be used. When used, continuous filament textured nylon yarn denier shall be 1000 warp and 500 fill; breaking strength shall be 1450 lb (min); thickness shall be 0.042 in. (min) to

0.054 in. (max); filling yarns per inch shall be 40; full warp ends shall be 160; and width binder ends shall be 38.

d) 1.0- inch Tape- MIL-PRF-5038, Type III, class 2, continuous filament textured yarns shall be used.

3.2.4.1 Matching, webbing. The color of the webbing shall match the black shade NSFV outer shell standard sample when viewed under a filtered tungsten lamp which approximates artificial daylight having a correlated color temperature of 7500±200K, with illuminations of 100±20 foot candles, and shall be a good match to the standard sample under incandescent lamplight at 2856±200K.

3.2.5 Elastic. The elastic shall be 4 inches wide ±0.060 inch. The elastic shall be heat cut smooth with no burrs or residual melt. The construction shall be warp knitted with textured polyester 150/1, textured polyester filler; total denier shall be 750 total. There shall be 60 rubber strands; natural rubber or equivalent. The thickness shall be 0.040-0.045 inches. Picks per inch shall be 50±4. Stretch shall be 110%±15%. The color shall be black.

3.2.6 Hook and loop fastener. Hook and loop fasteners shall conform to A-A-55126, Type II, Class 1, in 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 5.5 inch widths. The color shall be black.

3.2.7 Thread. Thread, Nylon, Bonded, Size E (tex 70-76) or Size F (tex 90-112), A-A- 59826, Type II, Class A. The color shall be black.

3.2.8 Grommet. Plain, brass, black oxide, NASM16491, size 0, type I, class 3.

3.2.9 Washer. Plain, brass, black oxide, NASM16491, size 0, type I, class 3.

3.2.10 Eyelets. Eyelets, metallic, rolled flange type shall conform to MIL-E-20652.

3.2.11. U.S. Navy name tapes. The letters US NAVY and size (XS, S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X) shall be printed on the pattern piece “US NAVY NAME TAPE” in white using the font Arial Bold (Note: XXL will be represented as “2X” and XXXL will be represented as “3X” ).

The individual letters US NAVY shall each be 1 3/8 inches tall (± 1/8) and 1 1/4 inches wide (± 1/8). The size letter(s) (XS, S, M, L, XL, 2X, 3X) shall be ¼ inch tall (± 1/16) and ¼ inch wide (± 1/16). A drawing of the name tapes outlining letter dimensions and placement is given in Appendix C FIGURE 1C.

3.2.12 Oval Ring. Oval ring, welded steel, 1.5-inch, black.

3.2.13 Tension Lock. Dual bar tie down, 1-inch webbing Ladderloc tab, black.

3.3 Design. The NSFV modular unisex body armor system protects the upper torso from multiple ballistic threats and is easily configured to defeat predicted mission threat at a minimum system weight. The NSFV subsystem (see 3.5) consists of (1) one base vest assembly made up of an outer shell base vest carrier with a ballistic insert set made up of removable ballistic (front and back) inserts, and (2) one yoke and collar assembly with non-removable ballistic inserts. MOdular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) webbing is sewn onto the interior of the vest to accommodate (optional) groin and lower back protector assemblies and on the front of the NSFV outershell to accommodate limited load carrying compatible with MOLLE. The NSFV provides protection from conventional fragmenting munitions and multiple hits from .357 SIG and .44 MAG handgun rounds. The ESAPI subsystem consists of a set of interchangeable, sized, and contoured plates inserted into front and back pockets inside the NSFV to provide vital organs protection against multiple hits of small arms rifle bullets and indirect fire flechettes.

3.3.1 Figures. NSFV base vest and component drawings are given in Appendix C (FIGURES 2C – 7C). These figures are furnished for information purposes only and are for general reference; they are not to be used in place of patterns. When inconsistencies exist between the written purchase description and the figures, the written purchase description shall govern.

3.3.2 Patterns. The Government shall furnish patterns for the baseline design from which the contractor can use applicable parts to create cutting working patterns. Compliance with patterns is needed to meet interface requirements with fielded personnel combat equipment. The working patterns shall include the size, directional lines, placement marks, notches, and provided seam allowances. Baseline patterns require a 3/8 ±1/16 inch seam allowance unless otherwise stated on patterns. Except for the ballistic panels, all the components of the vest shall be cut with a tolerance of ± 1/16 inches in accordance with the pattern parts indicated except where changes or enhancement(s) to baseline are proposed. The ballistic panels shall be cut with a tolerance of -1/16/+1/8 inches to ensure maximum protective area of coverage is achieved (see paragraph 3.5, Appendix A, TABLE III-A). Drill holes are not permitted.

3.3.2.1 Base vest and components carrier outer shell.

Item Nomenclature Computer Nomenclature Cut

1 BACK OUTER SHELL NSFV-BACK OUTER SHLL 1

2 BACK PLATE POCKET FLAP NSFV-BCK PLT PKT FLP 1

3 BACK SHOULDER HOLDER NSFV-BACK SHLDR HOLD 2

4 US NAVY NAME TAPE NSFV-US NAVY TAPE 2

5 FRONT OUTER SHELL NSFV-FRNT OUTER SHLL 1

6 FRONT PLATE POCKET FLAP NSFV-FRT PLT PKT FLP 1

3.3.2.2 Base vest and components carrier inner shell.

Item Nomenclature Computer Nomenclature Cut

7 BACK INNER SHELL UPPER NSFV-BACK IN SHL UPP 1

8 BACK INNER SHELL LOWER NSFV-BACK IN SHL LOW 1

9 BACK PLATE POCKET BACK NSFV-BCK PLT PKT BCK 1

10 BACK PLATE POCKET FRONT NSFV-BCK-PLT PKT FRT 1

11 USE CARE POCKET NSFV-USE CARE POCKET 1

12 FRONT INNTER SHELL UPPER NSFV-FRT INN SHLL UP 1

13 FRONT INNER SHELL LOWER NSFV-FRT INN SHLL LW 1

14 FRONT PLATE POCKET BACK NSFV-FRT PLT PKT BCK 1

15 FRONT PLATE POCKET FRONT NSFV-FRT PLT PKT FRT 1

3.3.2.3 Base vest and components ballistics.

16 BACK BALLISTIC NSFV-BACK BALLISTIC

17 FRONT BALLISTIC NSFV-FRONT BALLISTIC

3.3.2.4 Base vest and components ripstop.

18 BACK BALLISTIC COVER NSFV-BACK BLLSTC CVR 2

19 FRONT BALLISTIC COVER NSFV-FRNT BLLSTC CVR 2

3.3.2.5 Base vest and components 1-inch webbing.

20 SHOULD STRAP YIBYAB NSFV-SHLDR STRP YBYB 2

21 YIBYAB TEMPLATE NSFV-YIBYAB TEMPLATE 2

3.3.2.6 Base collar/yoke and components shell 500 denier.

22 UNDR COLLAR SHELL YOKE-UND CLLR SHL 2

23 YOKE BOTTOM SHELL YOKE-YOKE BTTM SHELL 1

24 YOKE TOP SHELL YOKE-YOKE TOP SHELL 1

3.3.2.7 Base collar/yoke and components ballistics.

Item Nomenclature Computer Nomenclature Cut

26 YOKE BALLISTIC FILLER YOKE-YOKE BALLISTIC

27 BALLSTIC COLLAR WIDE YOKE-COLLAR WIDE

28 BALLSTIC COLLAR NARROW YOKE-COLLAR NARROW

3.3.2.8 Base collar/yoke and components ripstop.

29 TOP COLLAR SHELL YOKE-TOP COLLAR SHL 2

3.3.2.9 Base collar/yoke and components 1 inch webbing.

30 YOKE WEBBING YOKE-YOKE WEBBING 2

3.3.2.10 Base collar/yoke and components plastic.

31 YOKE-PLASTIC YOKE-PLASTIC 2

3.4 Performance requirements. The following requirements apply to all components and subcomponents of the NSFV modular unisex body armor system.

3.4.1 Functional integration. All body armor, NSFV components shall be integrated for functional and physical interfaces for any body armor, NSFV system configuration. All components within a size shall be fully interchangeable with every other system of the same size (i.e. back ballistic panel will fit into any NSFV outer shell back of same size) with no degradation of performance.

3.4.2 Fungus resistance. All components and parts of the body armor, including interior components, shall be resistant to fungal growth. The visual grading shall be less than 2. All components shall show only trace or no susceptibility to fungal growth nor experience damage due to the presence of fungus spores or adjacent fungus growth (see paragraph 4.5.8).

3.4.3 Use and care instruction. An instruction pamphlet will be furnished with each body armor system. The instruction pamphlet will be printed on a durable man made, synthetic paper capable of multiple time use under harsh field conditions.

3.4.4 Matching. The cloths shall match the standard (see 4.5.12).

3.4.5 Colorfastness. The finished cloth shall show fastness to laundering (after 3 cycles), light (after 40 standard fading hours or 170 kilojoules), and perspiration equal to or better than the standard sample or 3-4 of the AATCC Gray Scale for Color Change and Staining, except fastness to light shall be equal to or better than a rating of 3 for Color Change. The finished cloth shall show fastness to crocking equal to or better than the standard sample or shall have an AATCC Procedure 8 9-step Chromatic Transference Scale rating of not lower than 3-4. The finished textile components shall meet the colorfastness requirements when tested as specified in paragraph 4.5 (Appendix B, TABLE I-B).

3.5 NSFV Subsystem. See paragraph 3.3 for NSFV configuration. The maximum finished weight of the NSFV subsystem for each size is outlined in Appendix A, TABLE-IIA, when measured a specified in 4.5.2.1. The minimum area of ballistic coverage for each ballistic panel subcomponent in each size is outlined in Appendix A, TABLE-IIIA. Finished base vest measurements for each size are outlined in Appendix A, TABLE V-A, when inspected as specified in 4.5.2.

3.5.1 Ballistic resistance performance. The Body armor, multiple threat protection levels as follows:

a) NSFV provides fragmentation protection from conventional fragmenting munitions (see paragraph 3.5.2.2).

b) NSFV provides multi-hit handgun bullet protection for .357 SIG Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

Flat Nose (FN) projectile and .44 Magnum Semi Jacket Hollow Point (SJHP) (see paragraph 3.5.2.3).

c) NSFV and ESAPI (2.2) together provide multi-hit small arms bullet protection from

(1) NATO 7.62 x 51 mm M-80 Ball

(2) Soviet 7.62 mm x 54 R Ball Type LPS

(3) U.S. 5.56 mm M855A1 Ball

(4) 7.62mm x 63 APM 2

3.5.2 Ballistic performance. The NSFV ballistic material system consists of an outershell, ballistic panel, and an outershell inner lining to accomplish the ballistic characteristics specified in paragraphs 3.5.2.2, 3.5.2.3, and 3.5.2.4 as tested in paragraph 4.6.

3.5.2.1 Removable ballistic panel subcomponent. Ballistic panels must be able to be inserted easily into NSFV outershell carriers; front and back base vest. The ballistic panels shall provide a means to prevent raveling and soiling, and to secure placement properly within the outershell carrier. The gap/ease between outershell carrier and panel shall be no greater than the ease allowed within the baseline patterns (see 4.5.1 and 4.5.3).

3.5.2.1.1 Ballistic filler. The ballistic filler weight shall not exceed 1.33 lb sq/ft with a maximum 0.30 inch thickness when tested as specified in 4.5.6 and 4.5.7. Weight reduction of the ballistic filler that exceeds 0.10 lb sq/ft or more is desired. Except for ancillary components such as thread, the ballistic filler shall be made entirely of ballistic material. If ballistic filler is non-contiguous, it is required a minimum 1 inch, feathered overlap is achieved when fully extended during individual movements to maintain uniform ballistic protection.

3.5.2.1.2 Flexibility. The ballistic filler shall be flexible.

3.5.2.1.3 Abrasion resistance. All adjacent layers within the ballistics material system shall demonstrate abrasion resistance against each other for a minimum of 2000 cycles when tested as specified in paragraph 4.5 (Appendix B, TABLE I-B). A rating ≥3 is required.

3.5.2.2 Fragmentation protection. The ballistic material system (see 3.5.2) shall provide consistent ballistic performance for each complete NSFV all ballistic inserts for base vest, protectors. All NSFV components and base vest (see paragraph 3.2 and 3.3) will be made from the same approved ballistic package. Appendix D, TABLE I-D lists the required minimum V50 values for base vest assembly at specified obliquity when tested with the Fragment Simulating Projectile (FSP) and Right Circular Cylinder (RCC) dry and wet (sea water(for the purpose of this PD, sea water is synonymous with ocean water per ASTM D1141)). Appendix D, TABLE I-D specifies minimum ballistic performance that shall be maintained after conditioning to hot and cold temperature, and accelerated aging. Testing is specified in 4.6. Any product improvements in the ballistic performance of the NSFV base vest panels shall not reduce the ballistic performance of the Body armor, NSFV system small arms protection of base vest and ESAPI when tested as specified in ESAPI performance requirements (see 2.2).

3.5.2.2.1 Yoke fragmentation protection. Additional ballistic filler between the yoke carrier of outershell and lining shall not exceed 0.50 lb/ft2 (max.) and 0.10 inch thickness (max.).

The minimum V50 is outlined in Appendix D, TABLE II-D.

3.5.2.3 Handgun protection. The ballistic material system shall be engineered to provide handgun protection at no added weight to the fragmentation material system. Appendix D and F, outline the ballistic material system V50 and V0 performance, in varying conditions, acceptance for the .357 SIG Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Flat Nose (FN) projectile and .44 Magnum Semi Jacket Hollow Point (SJHP) projectile. Backface deformation 90/90 UTL should be less than 44mm when tested as specified in 4.6 and Appendix F.

3.5.2.4 Rifle protection. The ballistic material system shall be engineered to work with ESAPI plates. Backface deformation 90/90 UTL should be less than of less than 33mm when used with an ESAPI plate shot with 7.62x54R type LPS at 2,750+50 feet per second. Testing specified in 4.6 and Appendix F.

3.5.3 Construction. The exterior of the system shall be edge stitched approximately 1/8 inch from all edges EXCEPT front edge contacting the neck area of the individual (see 6.4) and the back starting at the beginning of the shoulder flap continuing around the neck line to the other shoulder flap end. All stitching shall be back-tacked to prevent raveling and demonstrate good stitching quality with no loose ends, consistent stitches per inch, even tension with no loose needle or bobbin thread. Fabric edges shall not ravel.

3.5.3.1 Hook and loop fastener. Hook and loop fasteners shall not be stitched in the selvage edge to prevent associated fraying durability problems in repeated use (see 4.5).

3.5.3.2 Stitching. Stitching shall conform to ASTM D1693, 9-12 stitches per inch.

End of seams and stitches (stitch type 301) that are not caught in other seams or stitching shall be securely back tacked or back stitched. Thread breaks or bobbin run-outs occurring during sewing shall be secured by stitching back of the break minimum of 1/2 inch. Thread tension shall be maintained so that there will be no loose stitching resulting in loose bobbin or top thread, or excessively high stitching resulting in puckering of the materials sewn. Thread ends shall be trimmed to a length of not more that 1/4 inch.

3.5.3.3 Automatic stitching. Automatic stitching machines may be used to perform any of the stitching patterns provided the requirements for the stitch pattern, stitches per inch, size and type of thread are met, and at least three or more tying, overlapping, or back stitches are used to secure the ends of the stitching.

3.5.3.4 Bartacks. No stitch run-off is allowed and no needle cutting by bartack. Double bartacks (one on top of the other) will be avoided to prevent needle cutting and weakening of the attachment point. Bartack requirements are specified in Appendix A, TABLE IV-A when tested as specified in 4.5.

3.5.3.5 Bartack alignment for MOLLE pocket attachment. The required spacing of vertical bartacks is specified below which is needed for physical compatibility of MOLLE pocket attachment on PLATE POCKET base vest.

a) Distance between vertical bartacks on horizontal webbing shall be 1 ½ inch -0/ + 1/16.

b) Distance between non-consecutive horizontal webbing shall be 1 1/8 inch (± 1/16).

c) Vertical bartacks on consecutive horizontal webbing rows shall be vertical aligned with an offset of ¾ inch -0/ + 1/16 bottom to top in a vertical straight line.

3.5.3.6 Drag strap. The drag strap on the back of the NSFV (all sizes) shall have a peak strength not less than 400 lbf (increased strength is desirable) when tested in accordance with paragraph 4.8.

3.5.3.7 Binding. All ends of binding not completely encased are to be seared.

3.5.3.8 Drainage. The NSFV shall provide a durable means to allow water in the vest to drain out quickly and easily. Grommets/Eyelets/Washers will be securely cinched without splitting in a manner that will prevent detachment from or cutting of the adjacent material.

3.5.3.9 Torso adjustment. Torso adjustment shall provide the wearer a means to easily secure the vest to the torso. An elastic cummerbund secured to the back of the vest, shall be secured around the waist of the wearer. External hook and loop adjustments are provided on each side of the vest. The left and right shoulder straps shall utilize a yibyab adjustment loop.

3.6 Size, identification and instruction label. Each component shall have a combination identification, size, care, manufacturer, date of production, lot number, serial number, and contract number. Labels will be readable under low light conditions: moonlight and red or blue filtered flashlight. The label shall be of sufficient strength to withstand repeated abrasion during maritime use and cleaning. Contents of labels shall be as found in Appendix E. Labels shall include the following:

a) The NSFV base vest component and ballistic panel subcomponent shall have a combination size, identification, serial number, ballistic protection level, and instruction label for the entire NSFV system. Chest circumference for each size is given in Appendix A, TABLE VII-A.

b) The instruction label shall include dos and don’ts for use and cleaning instructions, and donning/doffing instructions for the entire NSFV system. (See Appendix E.)

c) The instruction label shall be located on the inside of the back of the base vest.

The size of the label shall be 4.5 inches wide by 7.75 inches high. The type shall be no smaller than 10 point and shall be in accordance with MIL-DTL-32075, Type VI, Class 14. (See Appendix E.)

d) The yoke collar assembly shall also be labeled. Label size shall be at the option of the contractor governed by the contents and size of the characters of the inscription, space between lines, and as applicable blank margins on the sides of the labels. The contents of the labels shall be as found in Appendix E.

3.6.1 Soft body armor labeling. All soft body armor shall be labeled in adherence to the labeling requirement set forth in NIJ Standard 0101.06. NSFV labeling shall include, but not be limited to the following:

a. Name of Manufacturer

b. Rated Level of Protection and reference to standard (e.g. Type IIIA IAW NIJ Standard

0101.06 and Fragmentation)

c. Strike face or wear face. The proper orientation of the ballistic panel in the carrier must be clearly identified.

d. A warning in type not less than 14 point and a minimum of 1 ½ times larger than the rest of the type on the label (exclusive of the manufacturer identification and logo) stating that the armor is not intended to protect the wearer from rifle fire and not intended to protect the wearer from sharp edged or pointed instruments.

e. Date of Manufacture

f. Size

g. Serial Number

h. Model of Vest

i. Care Instructions

3.6.2 Unique Identification (UID): Front and Back ballistic panels only will require a unique identification label that conforms to the specifications below:

The manufacturer is required to comply with the current versions of Military Standard 130 and the Department of Defense Guide to Uniquely Identifying Items, and the following criteria.

1. Color: Label/Tag will be black with white Human Readable and Machine Readable Information (HRI) and (MRI) or white with black HRI/MRI.

2. HRI shall consist of: Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code of activity applying the tag/label, Lot Number, Serial Number, Date of Production, National Stock Number (NSN) and Design Code. HRI will meet requirements of the latest version of MIL-STD-130.

3. MRI shall consist of one ECC 200 compliant Data Matrix code containing: CAGE code of activity applying the tag/label, Lot Number, Serial Number, Date of Production, NSN, and Design Code. The tag/label shall comply with the latest version of MIL-STD-130, ANSI MH10.8.2, and Items #4 and #5 below. To prevent automated read errors, the Government will not allow other 1D or 2D codes to be printed on this label. This does not restrict contractor from using other HRI and MRI on labels not associated with the UID label/tag.

4. Data Matrix Construct: The Data Matrix shall be encoded per MIL-STD-130 using only the data identifiers (DI) and criteria shown below. The following DI sequence shall be maintained in the order listed below:

Cage=17V followed by cage code Lot=1T followed by lot number Serial number=S followed by serial number Date of production = 16D followed by production date, YYYYMMDD National stock number=N followed by the NSN.

Part number = 1P followed by design code (the design code may be up to 13 alphanumeric characters (plus only dashes “-” as special characters))

Construct Example:

[)>RS06GS17V52969GS1TE034GSS328185GS16D20080215GSN8470-01-

520-7370GS1PABC-123RSEOT

5. Data Matrix Geometry: Data Matrix codes shall be a square ECC200 matrix per

ISO 16022. Individual Cell size (element size) of the code shall be between 0.020 and 0.023 inches. A quiet zone of 0.5 inches of Black label/tag material is required around the Data Matrix code.

6. Verification: Data Matrix code quality will be graded to ISO 15415 with a certified verifier and meet a minimum passing grade per the latest release of MIL-STD-130.

AS9132 and AIM DPM grading platforms will not be allowed for this project.

Contractor must provide the contracting officer with at least two verification reports per ballistic panel for each FAT and LAT. If using laminates or overcoats the label must be verified after placing the laminate or overcoat on the label or tag.

No exceptions are allowed. Proof of Verification is subject to inspection at the time of shipment.

7. Validation: Validation checks of the UID must be performed on a routine basis.

Contractor is responsible for encoding the UID per above guidelines (#4 and 5) and the latest revision of MIL-STD-130. Proof of Validation is subject to inspection at the time of shipment.

8. Placement of the UID label/tag: The data label shall be centered horizontally and placed immediately below the loop material in the lower center section of the vest on the side opposite the strike face. Alternatively, the UID label tag can be integrated into the soft body armor label outlined in paragraph 3.6.1.

3.7 Ballistic insert measurements. The measurements for the finished ballistic inserts will be in accordance with Appendix A, TABLE III-A.

a) The front ballistic panel shall cover the chest approximately up to the collar bone;

have a scooped neck sufficient to maintain proper ballistic coverage. The front ballistic panel will also extend downward to the waist and extend around the sides with an overlap to provide maximum side protection. The biceps/chest region shall be cut with sufficient space to minimize irritation and restriction of arm movement during duties such as the yielding of a firearm and positioning.

b) The rear ballistic panel shall cover the back of the torso from above the shoulder blades down to a position above the duty belt. The rear panel of outer shell shall have a cummerbund to provide additional support and an attachment point.

c) Panels shall be equipped with an internal hook and loop suspension system. The suspension system must provide direct support to the ballistic panels to keep them from sagging and creasing at the bottom of the vest.

3.8 ESAPI Pocket. The NSFV ESAPI pockets shall ensure positioning of the bottom horizontal edge according to the Government patterns for proper organ coverage, and have enough ease to allow the ESAPI to be easily and quickly inserted into and removed from the vest without struggle or force (see paragraph 4.7.1).

3.9 Responsibility for compliance. All items shall meet all requirements of section 3 and 4 of this specification. The absence of any inspection requirements shall not relieve the contractor of the responsibility of ensuring that all products of supplies submitted to the government for acceptance shall comply with all requirements of the contract. Sampling inspection, as part of manufacturing operations, is an acceptable practice to ascertain conformance to requirements; however, this does not authorize submission of known defective material, either indicated or actual, nor does it commit the government to accept defective material. If there is a conflict between the stated requirements and the ANSI standard, the more restrictive requirement shall apply.

4. VERIFICATION

4.1 Classification of inspections. The inspection requirements specified herein are classified as outlined below. Unless otherwise specified, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all inspection requirements specified herein. The Government reserves the right to perform any of the inspections set forth where such inspections are deemed necessary to ensure the supplies conform to prescribed requirements.

a) First article inspection and performance based qualification (see 4.2)

b) Conformance inspection (see 4.3)

4.2 First article inspection and performance based qualification. When a first article is required, it shall be examined for design (3.3), compatibility and interchangeability of components, inspection requirements in 4.5, and overall workmanship (see Appendix B, TABLE I-B and Appendix F). Ballistic performance for all test conditions 4.6.1, data, certificate, or compliance for testing requirements in 4.6 and 4.7 will be performance based qualification.

4.2.1 Material qualification. At any point after a First Article Test has been approved, any material change must be tested in accordance with the appropriate paragraph of this Purchase Description and approved by the government.

4.2.2 Ballistic qualification. At any point after a First Article Test has been approved, any material or process change to the ballistic package will be required to pass all ballistic First Article Test requirements as specified in paragraph 4.6.

4.3 Conformance inspection. Conformance Lot inspection shall be performed in accordance with Section 3 and 4 in conjunction with Appendices A, B, D, E and F. The Government’s acceptance of the contractor’s end item product will be determined by the ballistic and non-ballistic requirements validation.

4.3.1 Certificate of compliance (COC). When certificates of compliance are required, the Government reserves the right to inspect such items to determine the validity of the certification.

All certificates shall be supported by test reports to ascertain their validity.

4.4. Demonstration verification. The performance requirement is verified by observation and operation that the properties, characteristics and parameters of the item meet the functional requirements specified in applicable paragraphs of Section 3. Pass or fail criteria are simple accept or reject indications of functional performance since no qualitative values exist or are difficult to measure (see Appendix B, TABLE I-B).

4.5 Requirements and verifications. Appendix B, TABLE I-B delineates performance requirements verified through visual methods, including physical measurements in order to determine that no deficiencies exist.

4.5.1 End item visual inspection. The end items shall be inspected for the defects listed in Appendix B, TABLE II-B. The lot size shall be expressed in units of vests or the individual components (when component is purchased separately). The sample unit shall be one completely fabricated vest or individual component.

4.5.2 End item dimensional inspection. The end items shall be inspected for finished measurements (see Appendix A, TABLE V-A). The lot size shall be expressed in units of vests or individual components.

4.5.2.1 Linear measurements. Front and back center measurements are taken along the center line by holding the garment taut with a metal measuring device and measurements taken to the nearest 1/16 inch. Front and back width, and webbing hanger's measurements are taken in a flat, relaxed state, with a metal measuring device and measurements taken to the nearest 1/16 inch. Dimensional measurements are taken as described below:

a) Spacing of webbing hangers for MOLLE pockets: The horizontal distance between bartacks shall be taken from the center of one bartack to the center of the adjacent bartack. The spacing between non-consecutive horizontal webbing shall be measured on adjacent webbings from the bottom edge of one to the top edge of the other.

b) Base vest center front and back lengths: The center front and back length shall be taken on a straight line from the center of the back from the top edge of the base vest neckline (center front and back) to the bottom edge of the shell. Note: Front flap and/or back center flap may be raised while taking measurement.

c) Base vest front width: The front width shall be taken on a straight line measuring across front panel from side to side at middle webbing of map pocket.

d) Base vest back width: The back width shall be taken on a straight line measuring across back panel at middle webbing of cummerbund holder.

e) Yoke and collar: Each collar length and height shall be measured. Collar height will be measured from the top center edge of the collar to the binding edge of where the collar and base yoke join together. Each collars’ length shall be measured along the binding edge where the collar and base yoke join together. The length of the back portion of the yoke shall be measured in a straight line from the binding edge where both collars intersect and join the base yoke to the center binding edge of the back of the yoke.

4.5.3 In-process visual examination of cut parts, fillers and patterns. The cut parts for the vest shell assembly, the ballistic filler components, and collars shall be 100 percent inspected by vendor during the cutting process to determine that parts containing defects such as a hole, cut, are removed from production. Ballistic fillers shall be 100 percent inspected by vendor during the assembly of the individual groups to assure that they contain the correct number of plies, that no individual plies are pieced and they are marked correctly as to the size and number of plies.

In addition to the above, inspection shall be made of working patterns to assure that they conform to government patterns in all respects. Whenever nonconformance is noted, correction shall be made to the item or items affected. Parts that cannot be corrected shall be removed from the production.

4.5.4 In-process visual examination of ballistic filler assemblies for size. Appendix B, TABLE II-B-7 provides visual examination criteria for ballistic filler. The lot shall be expressed in units of front or back ballistic fillers and collar assemblies. The sample unit shall be one front, one back, and one collar of ballistic filler.

4.5.5 Area of coverage. Square inches of coverage are measured by digitized patterns and comparison to working patterns.

4.5.6 Weight. The NSFVs will be examined for weight by component. See maximum weights in Appendix A, TABLE II-A. Weights are taken on a tared scale and measured to the nearest 0.01 pound. Areal densities for production items may be calculated by weighing the ballistic filler insert divided by the pattern area. Areal densities for First Article Test may be calculated from weights and measurements taken from samples submitted. Areal densities are measured in accordance with ASTM D3776, except units shall be expressed in lb/ft2.

4.5.7 Thickness. Thickness is measured to the nearest 0.01 inch when measured under

0.5 psi when tested according to ASTM D1777.

4.5.8 Fungus test. Verification of compliance with the fungus requirement will be performed through the use of certified materials and coupon sampling. A fungus test will be performed on all non-certified materials. Tests will be performed in accordance with Method

508.4 of MIL-STD-810. A sample of each non-certified material will be placed in the fungus test chamber for 28 days.

4.5.9 Accelerated laundering test. The test procedure shall be as follows using the equipment cited in AATCC 61 and apply to NSFV carrier cloths. Cut five specimens, each 4.5 by 3.0 inches, from the basic material and then fold in half, with the face side out, to form a 2.25 x 3.0 inch dimension. Machine stitch the open edges together (seam allowance of no more than 1/4 inch) to form a bag leaving an opening approximately 1.0 inch length. Through the opening, add 35 stainless steel spheres. Close the bag by stapling or stitching. Place the bag in a stainless steel cylinder (one bag per cylinder) without the color transfer cloth; add 50 ml of type II P-D- 245 detergent solution (0.5 percent by weight detergent solution) and 100 stainless steel spheres and close tightly. Place the stainless steel cylinder in a preheated Launder-Ometer set at a water bath temperature of 160 ± 5 degree F. Agitate the cylinder for one (1) hour maintaining a constant temperature. At the end of the laundering cycle, remove the bag from the cylinder and rinse thoroughly in a beaker or in running tap water at 100 ± 5 degree F for five (5) minutes with occasional stirring or hand squeezing. Remove excess water by squeezing in hand (not extracting) and then dry bag in automatic dryer set on permanent press cycle, 150 – 160 degree F for fifteen minutes (more than one bag can be dried together). If the bag breaks open to release the contained spheres at any time during the test, the test shall be considered invalid and another bag specimen shall be prepared and tested. Remove all spheres from the bag and evaluate each face of the bag without pressing or ironing the bag. Each face of the laundered bag shall be compared to the original sample (unlaundered) in accordance with AATCC evaluation procedure

1 for evaluation of Gray Scale for color change, and the rating shall be based on the portion of the black print exhibiting the most color loss. The lower of the two ratings of each bag shall be recorded as the result for the bag. Failure of any of the five bags to meet required rating shall be considered a test failure.

4.5.10 Resistance to POL, insect repellent, sweat, and sea water after one laundering.

NSFV outershell carrier cloths shall be tested, after one laundering per 4.5.11, and after exposure to each DEET, POLs; motor oil, gasoline, weapon lubricant, sweat, and sea water for hydrostatic resistance in accordance with AATCC 127. A specimen for each test liquid (i.e., DEET, motor oil, etc) shall be 8 inches by 8 inches. The specimen shall be laid flat, face side up, on a glass plate, 8 inches by 8 inches by ¼ inch and three drops of each test liquid shall be applied to the center of the specimen. A glass plate the same dimensions shall be placed on the specimen and a four pound weight placed in the center of the glass plate assembly. After 16 hours, remove the specimen and test immediately for hydrostatic resistance. DEET test liquid shall be diethyltoluamide (O-I-503 Type II, Concentration A). The motor oil shall conform to ASTM D- 4485, Grade CD-II. The perspiration solution shall be made up in a 500 ml glass beaker by combining 3.0 grams sodium chloride, 1.0 gram of trypticase soy broth powder, 1.0 gram normal propyl propionate, and 0.5 gram liquid lecithin. Add 500 ml of distilled water, add a magnetic stirring bar, and cover the beaker. Place the beaker on a combination hot plate/magnetic stirrer apparatus. While stirring, heat the solution to 50 degree C, until all ingredients are dissolved.

While stirring, cool the solution to 35 degree C, remove cover, and dispense immediately with pipette or other suitable measuring device. Dispense 2 ml of perspiration solution at 35 degree C onto the center of an 8 inch by 8 inch by 1/4 inch glass plate. Place an 8 inches by 8 inches specimen face up. Dispense an additional 2 ml of perspiration solution onto the center of the specimen. A glass plate (do not rinse) of the same dimensions shall be placed on the specimen and a four pound weight placed in the center of the glass plate assembly. After 16 hours, remove and air dry specimen before testing for hydrostatic distance. See 4.6.1.1.1 for sea water formulation and sample preparation shall be the same as perspiration.

4.5.11 Laundering procedure. The test specimens and ballast, if needed, shall be placed in an automatic washing machine set on permanent press cycle, high water level and warm (105 degree F +/- 5 degree F) wash temperature, using 0.5 ounce (14 grams) of 1993 AATCC Standard Reference Detergent. The test specimens shall be taken from the same vicinity of the fabric as the specimens for the initial test. The duration of the laundering cycle shall be 30 +/-5 minutes. After laundering, the specimens and ballast shall be dried in an automatic tumble dryer set on permanent press cycle, 150 to 160 degree F for approximately 15 minutes. The laundering equipment, washer and dryer, shall be in accordance with AATCC 135.

4.5.12 Matching. The NSFV individual components, assemblies, cloths, and webbing shall match each other when assembled into a complete system as well as match the standard samples viewed under filtered tungsten lamps that approximate artificial daylight and that have a correlated color temperature of 7500 +/- 200 K, with illumination of 100 +/-20 foot candles, and shall be a good match to the standard sample under incandescent lamplight at 2856 +/- 200K.

4.5.13 Ballistic filler abrasion resistance. Testing shall be performed in accordance with

ASTM D3886 with the following exceptions: When a woven material is part of the ballistic layer system, it shall be used as the abradant mounted on the surface abrasion head; both the face and back of the test specimen shall be evaluated; the diaphragm shall be inflated to 4.0 psi with a

5.0 lb load. The abraded specimen shall be visually examined and rated according to the following criteria.

1. Severe change in surface appearance with most or all fibers in the center of the abrasion area being worn off or broken.

2. Moderate change in surface appearance with significant breakage of fibers in the center of the abrasion area and no appearance of a hole.

3. Slight change in surface appearance and minimal fiber breakage

4. No fabric structure change.

4.5.14 Flame Resistance. All materials tested shall be tested in accordance with ASTM D

6413 in both the warp and fill directions.

4.6 Ballistic performance. Items considered for FAT shall maintain an NIJ 0101.06 Type IIIA certification for sizes C1 and C5. FAT testing will be conducted on both 15 x15 inch shoot packs and NSFV panels of the proposed ballistic material system and shall be representative of the NIJ Type IIIA package. Lot Acceptance Testing will be conducted on the end item constructed of the approved ballistic material system. Failure to meet the requirements of any sub-test will constitute failure for the entire First Article Test or Lot Acceptance Test.

4.6.1 Ballistic testing. General procedures and requirements are provided in 4.6.2.

4.6.1.1 Conditions. Dry specimens and specimens after; wet, hot temperature, cold temperature, accelerated aging and POL conditioning will be ballistically tested as specified in

3.5.2.2. Dry condition is the standard test condition specified in 4.6.2.3. All non-ballistic components of the ballistic material system (i.e.; outer shell and inner lining) shall be laundered as specified in 4.5.11 prior to assembling test panels to simulate a worn condition. All specimens will be visually inspected after conditioning for coloration, distortion, melting, cracking, or other physical defects and noted.

4.6.1.1.1 Wet condition. Ocean water shall be utilized for NSFV wet test conditions.

Ocean water shall be…