Failure of Bidder to Acknowledge Solicitation Amendment and Preaward Notice of Award

A bidder on parachute contract was rejected as nonresponsive for failure to acknowledge receipt of solicitation amendment which imposed additional obligation, and was therefore nonwaivable. The agency had no obligation to inform protester of intention to award to higher bidder prior to award. Notice requirement of regulations was met 3 days after award, as well as orally prior to award. Protest was denied. (DJM)