How to bid on Air Operations Center Replication Cell (AOC RC) Support for the Air Force

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force is conducting market research to find companies capable of providing support for its Air Operations Center Replication Cell (AOC RC) program. This work would be performed at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a contract opportunity, meaning the Air Force is gathering information to help shape a future solicitation. Your response can help the agency understand the market and potentially influence how a future contract is structured.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

Responses to this RFI are due by August 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET (which is 4:00 PM CDT). This deadline is for submitting your capabilities package. The government plans to consider all information submitted to help determine its acquisition strategy for these services. While this RFI does not lead directly to a contract, it is an important step in the Air Force's planning process for a future award, which is anticipated around January 25, 2027, with performance starting March 26, 2027.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for both small and large businesses that can provide professional, scientific, and technical services. The anticipated North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this requirement is 541990, 'All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services,' with a size standard of $19.5 million. Small businesses are especially encouraged to respond and indicate if the work could be set aside for small businesses. Companies with experience in supporting command and control operations or similar technical programs would be well-suited.

How to respond to this RFI

To respond, you need to submit a capabilities package. This package should be no more than 10 pages total. It must include a sufficient technical discussion and detail to show the soundness of your proposed approach, and it should outline your company's key business abilities relevant to performing this requirement. If you are a GSA Contract Holder, include your contract number. You should also identify if a DD-254 will be required. The draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) is available with the RFI to help you understand the scope. Submit your information to Kevin Wesolowski at [email protected] and Mr. Eric Lingad at [email protected] by the deadline.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Focus your 10-page capabilities package on demonstrating your specific expertise and experience directly related to Air Operations Center support or similar complex command and control environments. Clearly articulate how your firm's technical approach aligns with the needs outlined in the draft PWS. For small businesses, explicitly state your small business status and provide a clear rationale for why this requirement could be a total small business set-aside, if applicable.

Ensure your response is concise and addresses all requested information within the page limit. While this is not a proposal, a well-structured and detailed response can significantly inform the Air Force's future acquisition strategy and highlight your company's capabilities for upcoming solicitations.