Hq, Space and Missile Systems Center, SMC/PK, 155 Discoverer Blvd, Suite 1516, Los Angeles AFB, CA 90245-4692

A -- NPOESS PROGRAM CALL FOR IMPROVEMENTS (CFI), CROSS-TRACK INFRARED SOUNDER (CRIS) SOL F04701-99-R-0024 POC Instrument Manager: Don Blersch, (301) 427-2084, ext. 165. Contracting Officer: Charles Briggs, (310) 336-4950 WEB: Click here to download a copy of the released CFI draft, http://npoesslib.ipo.noaa.gov/cris_cfi.htm. The Integrated Program Office (IPO) announces that the anticipated release date of the Call for Improvements (CFI) request for proposals for the down-selection into the next phase of the Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS) effort is 30 April 99. The Government intends to release a draft CrIS instrument CFI for industry review and comment on 12 March 99. The draft CFI will be released through the NPOESS program's Electronic Library Web site at the following URL: (http://npoesslib.ipo.noaa.gov/cris_cfi.htm). Industry is encouraged to challenge any element of the draft CFI, based on the understanding that Government responses are voluntary and that the Government is neither calling for offers nor negotiating during this process. Potential offerors are advised that the Government reserves the right to incorporate suggestions into the final CFI without identifying the submitter or requesting approval. Comments on the draft CFI are requested by 31 Mar 99, and should be directed the Contracting Officer. You are advised that an Ombudsman has been appointed to hear concerns from potential offerors for the CrIS down-selection. The Ombudsman's role is to assist in communicating offeror concerns, disagreements and/or recommendation to the appropriate Government personnel, not to diminish the roles and responsibilities of the System Program Director or Contracting Officer. When requested, the Ombudsman will maintain strict confidentiality. The Ombudsman does not participate in the evaluation of proposals or in the source selection process. The Ombudsman, Mr. Les Bordelon, SES, can be reached at (310) 363-3818. See Note(s) 26***** Posted 03/12/99 (W-SN307991). (0071)

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