Lower Torso Ballistic Protection

Added: Feb 23, 2011 10:06 am The Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) is conducting market research for lower torso ballistic protection.



Current operations expose Marines to Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). Beyond the blast and damage done by fragments and shrapnel, these events can inject sand and debris into any resulting wound which may require debridement by medical personnel. MARCORSYSCOM seeks information on commercial solutions which afford protection to the genitals, groin, perineum and closely adjacent areas of the body from sand and debris associated with explosive events. Desired characteristics include: easy to clean, lightweight, stretchable fabric that is breathable and antimicrobial. Further, the item could be worn for extended periods of time and would consist of multiple sizes.

It should afford minimum ballistic protection levels from sand/debris traveling approximately 975 feet per second (protection from the high velocity sand/debris from buried IEDs and not necessarily the fragments of the IEDs themselves) with increased protection against larger fragmentation desired. The increased performance desired should be at minimal additional weight, thermal burden or discomfort to the user. All responses should include any available test data, evidence of use by government or other agencies, and any other pertinent information. Specific areas of interest are as follows:



- What is the finished weight of the system for each available size? The target population is from the 5th percentile female through the 95th percentile male.

- Is the system machine washable? If so, please identify any restrictions.

- What are the special care and handling instructions (if any)?

- What is the area of protected coverage for this product (sq inches)?

- What is the level of protection (size of threat and velocity)?

- What is the published unit cost of the ballistic undergarment for each size?

- A description of the material properties of the fabrics selected in the design.



WRITTEN RESPONSES



Respondents are requested to include literature, brochures, capabilities and summaries directly addressing their ability to meet the ballistic undergarment capabilities described above.

Responses should also address business size, facilities, manufacturing capability (expressed as thousands of pieces per month), and the ability, or planned ability, to meet all Berry Amendment requirements (references: USC, Title 10, Section 2533a; DFARS 225.7002). Furnished written materials and any proprietary information will be protected when clearly identified as proprietary. No telephonic responses will be accepted. Responses shall be submitted not later than 16 March 2011 to Jennifer Glenn, at jennifer.glenn@usmc.mil or via FEDEX/UPS to Commander, Marine Corps Systems Command, Attn Jennifer Glenn, 2200 Lester Street Quantico VA 22134-6050. THIS REQUEST FOR INFORMATION IS FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT TO PROCURE ANY ITEMS/SERVICES, NOR FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO PAY FOR THE INFORMATION RECEIVED.

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