How to bid on M456 and M458 Detonating Cords for the DEPT of Defense

What the Army is buying and why it matters

The U.S. Army Contracting Command – Rock Island is looking for businesses that can manufacture, test, inspect, package, and deliver M456 detonating cords and M458 inert training cords. These products are essential for priming and detonating explosive charges, as well as for demolition training.

This is a Request for Information (RFI), which means the Army is conducting market research to identify potential suppliers. Your response helps the Army understand the market and may influence whether the future solicitation is set aside for small businesses or open to full competition. Multiple awards may also be considered.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on September 02, 2026. Your capabilities statement must be submitted by September 30, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

At the deadline, all submitted capabilities statements will be reviewed by the Army. This is not a request for proposal, so no contract will be awarded directly from this RFI. The information gathered will help the government plan for a future solicitation.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with manufacturing capabilities in explosives and pyrotechnics, including processing, loading, and Load Assemble Pack (LAP) of final products. You should also be able to perform First Article Testing (FAT) and Conformance/Lot Acceptance Testing (LAT) at both component and end-item levels.

The applicable NAICS code is 325920 – Explosives Manufacturing, with a small business size standard of 750 employees. The Army is considering all small business set-aside categories, including HUBZone, Veteran-Owned, and Woman-Owned businesses. If you do not have all resources in-house, you must demonstrate your ability to obtain them in a timely manner, including through sub-tier vendors.

How to respond

To respond, you need to prepare a capabilities statement package. This document should demonstrate your firm's ability to provide the specified detonating cords according to government technical data packages. The submission should be in your company's format, using no less than a 10-point font.

Your response, including the capabilities statement, must be submitted electronically to Contract Specialist Colin Sommers via email at [email protected]. Ensure your email is sent no later than 3:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) on September 30, 2026.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Clearly outline your specific manufacturing capabilities related to explosive and pyrotechnic processing, loading, and assembly. Detail your experience with First Article Testing and Lot Acceptance Testing, as these are explicitly required.

Address the current global supply chain issues. Identify any components or materials that might be subject to price volatility or scarcity and explain your strategies to mitigate these risks, ensuring production stability and managing price impacts. This shows foresight and planning.

If you plan to use subcontractors, clearly state how they meet the required criteria and how you will manage their performance. Ensure your capabilities statement explicitly mentions your small business status and any certifications like HUBZone, Veteran-Owned, or Woman-Owned.