Sole Source Justification and Approval Under 10 U. S. C. 2304 and 41 U. S. C. 253, as Implemented by FAR 13. 106-1(b)(1).

The U.S. Army Contracting Command - Aberdeen Proving Ground, Natick Contracting Division (NCD), on behalf of the Combat Feeding Directorate (CFD) of the Natick Soldier Research Development and Engineering Center (NSRDEC) has received funding from the Rapid Equipping Force (REF) to procure 660 High Stress Collapsible Water Bags (HSCWB) and 60 Sustainment Kits with an option for procurement of another 380 HSCWBs and 100 Sustainment Kits. NCD intends to award a sole source fixed price purchase order under simplified acquisition procedures to Harris Manufacturing Company, Inc., 550 West Ingham Avenue, Trenton NJ 08638-5097 for this procurement as authorized by 10 U.S.C. 2304 and 41 U.S.C. 253, as implemented by FAR 13.106-1(b)(1).

The proposed contract action is for supplies which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1). This notice of intent to purchase supplies from only one source is not a request for proposals; however, interested persons may submit their capability to respond to this requirement to the point of contact listed below by April 15, 2012.

A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.