The United States Army Contracting Command - Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Natick Division, Natick, Massachusetts, in support of the United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command - Soldier Center, Soldier Sustainment Directorate, intends to solicit and award a sole source contract for the large scale manufacturing of Vacuum Microwave Dried Components under the authority of FAR 13.106-l(b){l) to Bridgford Foods Corporation, 1308 N Patt St, Anaheim, California, 92801-2551. Market research indicates that Bridgford Foods Corporation is the only confirmed vendor who has successfully demonstrated the unique capability to manufacture shelf stable Vacuum Microwave Dried bars with complex formulations for military rations and meets the specific requirements. It is anticipated that the new contract will be awarded on or before 13 March 2023. Specific contract requirements are listed in the attached Statement of Work.

In accordance with FAR 5.207(c)(l6)(ii), all responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation which shall be considered by the agency. Any submission shall demonstrate how the source can provide the requirements identified above without incurring unacceptable delays or duplicative costs to the Soldier Sustainment Directorate. Responses must be received within 15 calendar days after the posted date of this synopsis.

A fixed price contract is anticipated. As stated above, it is estimated that the total contract will be for the large scale manufacturing of Vacuum Microwave Dried Components. 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. Any capability statement, proposal, or quotation received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. All respondents shall specify whether it is a large business, small business, small disadvantaged business, 8{a) concern, woman-owned small business, HUBZone small business, veteran­owned small business or service-disabled veteranowned small business. Respondents shall also specify whether they are a U.S. or foreign-owned firm. Foreign owned firms are advised to contact the contracting officer or program manager before submitting a response to determine whether there are restrictions on receiving an award. This notice is not to be construed as a commitment by the Government, nor will the Government reimburse any costs associated with the submission of information in response to this notice. Respondents will not be individually notified of the results of any Government assessments.