Notice of intent to solicit directly from suppliers for concealable body armor T-shirt systems

NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLICIT DIRECTLY FROM SUPPLIERS FOR CONCEALABLE BODY ARMOR T-SHIRT SYSTEMS.

In accordance with RFO 12.201(c)(2), the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) is soliciting quotes directly from suppliers for Concealable Body Armor T-Shirt Systems. This is a notice of intent only. A formal request for quote will not be published on SAM.gov.

Set-aside: Full and Open

NAICS Code: 315990

PSC: 8470

Description:

The Contractor shall provide a complete concealable body armor T‑shirt system consisting of a low‑profile compression-style (T-Shirt) carrier, and front and back, NIJ‑certified soft armor inserts (panels). All body armor provided under this contract shall meet or exceed, with documented evidence of compliance, the following:

• National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Standard 0101.06
• Minimum protection level: Level IIIA
• Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations

Body Armor System

The body armor system shall:

• Provide ballistic protection that meets or exceeds NIJ Level IIIA in accordance with NIJ Standard 0101.06.
• Include 360-degree protective coverage, consisting of
  • Front ballistic panel
  • Rear ballistic panel
  • Side ballistic panels or optional side expansion capability.
• Utilize polyethylene or aramid soft armor with multi‑hit capability.
• Be engineered for covert wear, producing no visible outline (“printing”) when worn beneath standard civilian attire.
• Maintain full mobility while resisting panel folding, curling, or shifting during extended physical activity.
• The complete system shall provide ventilated, lightweight protection, not exceeding a reasonable weight threshold of 3 lbs. for all‑day operational wear.
• Offer thin-profile armor panels, not exceeding 0.25–0.35 inches in thickness.

Carrier Requirements

The carrier shall:

• Be a compression-fit T‑shirt style carrier specifically designed to secure armor panels close to the body.
• Feature breathable, sweat‑wicking, and moisture‑evaporating fabric suitable for daily operational use.
• Maintain panel retention pockets that correctly index ballistic panels and prevent sagging, twisting, or displacement.
• Provide reinforced stitching and durability suitable for repeated wash/wear cycles required by law‑enforcement operations.
• Include elastic stabilization zones to reduce movement during running, defensive tactics, and vehicle operations.
• Be fully machine-washable with armor panels removed.
• Be available in neutral colors (e.g., black, white, grey) to support concealment.
• Materials used shall support covert operations and produce little to no sound signature when worn under clothing; hook-and-loop “Velcro”, raised snaps, clips, or other noisy fasteners are not permitted.

Fit and Sizing

• Armor system shall be available in multiple sizes (S, M, L,  XL, etc....) to ensure proper fit for all personnel

Additional Features

• Hydrophobic panel casing to protect ballistic material from sweat and moisture.
• Abrasion‑resistant outer panel skin to prolong service life.
• Heat‑sealed seams on ballistic panels to prevent contamination or fiber intrusion.

Delivery Requirements

• Delivery timelines: Within 30 days of order placement (or as negotiated)
• Deliveries shall be made to locations specified at the order level
• Items shall be packaged to prevent damage during transit
• Partial shipments must be approved by the Government