S -- SPECIAL NOTICE The following is a Request For Comment (RFC), a synosis of information for planning purposes, and does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP). The U.S. Army has drafted a "White Paper" which oulines a Cradle to Grave concept for developing a life cycle acquisition strategy for partnering with a contractor for new start systems. The Cradle to Grave concept integrates the development, engineering, production, fielding, sustainment, supply, maintenance, disposal and life cycle support functions to the maximum extent possible by establishing a partnership for life-cycle program management and systems support. The government's purpose in providing this opportunity for industry comment is to identify potential problems areas and provide recommendations to enhance the success of the proposed initiative. The government believes industry feedback is important, and is receptive to any ideas for eliminating constraining requirements, realizing a cost savings, or highlighting potential technical problem areasassociated with the concept. Comments provided should be viewed as an opportunity to improve the life cycle cost of U.S. Army weapons systems. Comments received from industry will be considered to revise the current draft White Paper. The government will not critique a potential offeror's comments and the RFC should not be used by an offeror to market their products. The government does not intend to pay for the information solicited and will not recognize any costs associated with submissions of the RFC. Copies of the draft White Paper are available at website http://www.acqnet.sarda.army,mil/hotlist/whiteppr.htm. Reponses to the RFC are due no later than August 31, 1998. They should be submitted by electronic mail to jeffress@sarda.army.mil or in writing to the following address: Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Research, Development and Acquisition), ATTN: Ms. Suellen Jeffress, SARD-PC, Skyline 6, Suite 309, 5109 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3201, voice (703) 681-1033, FAX (703) 681-1120. WEB: ERROR --, http://www.acqnet.sarda.army.mil. E-MAIL: http://www.acqnet.sarda.army.mil, jeffress@sarda.amry.mil. Posted 08/17/98 (W-SN237831).

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