TACOM-RI is seeking interested sources for a potential requirement of approximately 250 to 400 each of the M2A2 Aiming Circle (Complete) and approximately 300 to 400 each of the M2A2 Aiming Circle (Head Assembly). M2A2 Aiming Circle (Head Assembly) The Aiming Circle consists of an elbow telescope mounted on orienting and elevating mechanisms which are contained within a main housing. The main housing, in turn, is mounted on a tripod and provides precise measurements of azimuth and elevation angles o f a ground or aerial target through the use of azimuth and elevation scales. The telescope is a low power, fixed focus instrument. The elbow bend in the telescope makes it easier for the operator to use. A mounting mechanism provides the elbow telescope with unlimited azimuth movements and limited elevation movements. The aiming circle can be used to shoot the sun for general topographical surveying. An integral magnetic compass is used to orient the aiming circle to magnetic north, therefore the entir e construction of the aiming circle must be non-magnetic. The Aiming Circle can also be oriented using stars with a reticle inside the elbow telescope. The aiming circle mounts on the tripod head with leveling screws and level indicating vials. The aimi ng circle consists of cast and precision machined components. Two precision matched worms and wheels are also incorporated for azimuth and elevation movement. The aiming circle is roughly 10 inches high by 6 inches in diameter. An aluminum dome cover is provided with two latches and a webbed carrying strap for ease of transport and protection. M2A2 Aiming Circle (Complete) The M2A2 Aiming Circle is fielded as a system consisting of the aforementioned head assembly and the following items: Tripod, M51 Instrument Light, Plumb Bob and a Canvas Bag. The Tripod consists of three wooden legs, adjustable in length, hinged to a fl at tripod head. The flat tripod head contains a screw assembly which secures the aiming circle to it and provides a hook for hanging the plumb bob string. The M51 Instrument Light contains 2 batteries, a rheostat type switch and two wire cables each equ ipped with a specialized light. The Plumb Bob consists of a pointed cylindrical weight with a nylon string and a slide adjuster. The Canvas Bag contains pockets for storing the instrument light, plumb bob, and a lamp extractor. This bag is generally str apped to a leg of the tripod. Manufacture of these items will require the ability to precision machine worms and wheels and fit them as matched sets (lapping). The ability to access cast and machined components made of brass and other non-metallic materials. The ability to access opt ical workings or instruments and test ( i.e. azimuth test fixture and/or cross level fixture experience). A bidders conference will be conducted 18 Oct 2005 at US Army TACOM, Rock Island, IL, for interested sources to ask questions, view the respective components, and clarify understanding of the technical/manufacturing requirements of the items. The Governm ent is interested in learning the industries production lead-time of these items and monthly production capability. Sources interested can request the technical data packages on CD-ROM from Nancy Oakes at email address oakesn@ria.army.mil. Sources interested in attending the 18 Oct 2005 conference will submit attendee names, company represented, and country of citizenship by 11 Oct 2005 to permit coordination of security clearance and visitors passes. Each company is limited to no more tha n four attendees. As the conference is aimed at fostering an understanding of the technical/production requirements of the items, it is recommended firms determine attendees accordingly. In addition to the information required for obtaining clearance for the conference, interested sources shall provide a brief synopsis of their companys technical and production expertise/qualifications and expe rience producing similar equipment. Interested sources should indicate whether they are a large business or small businessif small business, please indicate if your firm is 8(a) certified, HUBZone certified, and/or a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. Those individuals not having submitted the required information by the specified date, allowing appropriate clearance to be accomplished, will not be permitted attendance at the conference. The required information shall be forwarded to Nancy Oakes, datafax (309) 782-1616 or email: oakesn@ria.army.mil no later than 11 Oct 2005. If technical questions are identified in advance of the conference, early submission, in writing, to the point of contact stated below is encouraged in order that responses can be properly investigated and available during the conference. Point of contact for questions is Nancy Oakes at the stated email address or at telephone (309) 782-7168. This announcement is a Request for Information/Sources Sought; it is for information and planning purposes only and shall NOT be construed as a Request for Proposal , announcement of a solicitation or other obligation on the part of TACOM-RI. All information is to be furnished at no cost or obligation to the Government.