How to bid on MEARNG F550 Emergency Light Installation for the Dept of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Maine Army National Guard (MEARNG) needs a contractor to install emergency lights and a Kussmaul battery tender on a government-owned Ford F-550 radiation detection vehicle. The government will provide the lights, controller, and battery tender. The contractor will provide all other necessary personnel, tools, and materials.

This project involves installing various Whelen light assemblies, integrating them with a central controller, and installing a battery charging system. The work must be completed at the contractor's facility within one week of the start date, including functional testing and cleanup.

Key dates and deadlines

The deadline for submitting questions about this opportunity is September 9, 2026. All quotes are due by September 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your quote on time, as late submissions may not be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for businesses experienced in vehicle upfitting, particularly with emergency vehicle lighting and electrical systems. Firms with expertise in installing Whelen products and Kussmaul battery tenders would be a good fit. The contractor must have an installation facility where the work can be performed.

How to respond

To respond, you must email your quote to the Contract Specialist, Thomas J. Ryan, at [email protected] and the Contracting Officer, Darlene Howes, at [email protected]. Your submission must include a completed SF 1449 form and a separate Technical Proposal. The Technical Proposal should address the evaluation criteria outlined in FAR 52.212-1 and 52.212-2 Addenda.

You can access the original solicitation documents by clicking "View original source" on the portal. You may need a free account to view all documents.

Tips for a competitive response

Clearly detail your experience with similar vehicle upfitting projects, especially those involving emergency lighting and battery charging systems. Highlight your team's qualifications and any relevant certifications for installing the specified equipment. Since the period of performance is one week, emphasize your ability to complete the work efficiently and within the strict timeframe.

Ensure your technical proposal directly addresses all requirements and evaluation criteria mentioned in the solicitation. Provide a clear plan for how you will install the government-furnished equipment, integrate the systems, conduct functional testing, and restore the vehicle. Pay close attention to the instructions for submitting the SF 1449 and the technical proposal via email.