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

Canonical: https://abierto.us/opportunities/36c10x26q0245

- Solicitation number: 36C10X26Q0245
- Notice type: Presolicitation
- Status: Open. Offers due September 21, 2026 at 1:00 PM EDT
- Department: Department of Veterans Affairs
- Contracting office: Sac Frederick (36C10X)
- NAICS: 315990 Apparel Accessories and Other Apparel Manufacturing
- Product or service code: 8470 Armor, Personal
- Place of performance: Washington, District of Columbia
- County: District of Columbia (FIPS 11001). https://abierto.us/counties/district-of-columbia-dc-11001
- City: Washington. https://abierto.us/cities/washington-dc-1150000
- First posted: September 16, 2026
- Last posted: September 16, 2026
- SAM.gov: https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/9945fafe2c3c4d0bb5e65c547394f656/view

## Description

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 A formal request for quote will not be published on SAM.gov.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

## Publications

- September 16, 2026: Presolicitation, due September 21, 2026 at 1:00 PM EDT. Notice 9945fafe2c3c4d0bb5e65c547394f656. https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/9945fafe2c3c4d0bb5e65c547394f656/view

## Points of contact

- Jennifer Swift, Jennifer.Swift2@va.gov, 2027142984
- Brian Keen, Brian.Keen2@va.gov, 2028204025

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Source: SAM.gov Contract Opportunities bulk extract. Confirm deadlines on SAM.gov before responding. Cite https://abierto.us/opportunities/36c10x26q0245.