Bid guide
How to bid on Military Unique Sustainment Technology III (MUST III) R&D with DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking research and development (R&D) partners for its Military Unique Sustainment Technology III (MUST III) program. This initiative focuses on leveraging modern, digitally driven manufacturing technologies for military clothing, textiles, and related equipment. The goal is to adopt commercial manufacturing advancements to achieve rapid prototyping, scalable production, and cost-effective solutions for the Department of Defense (DOD).
This is an opportunity for firms to contribute to the modernization of military sustainment, specifically in clothing and individual equipment, by applying advanced digital design, data, and Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) was published on August 13, 2026, and will remain open for five years. The final deadline for all submissions is December 02, 2030, at 11:59 PM ET.
There is a specific initial closing date for receipt of cost and technical proposals for IDIQ (Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity) consideration under Short Term Projects. This initial deadline is 45 days after the notice was posted. After this initial 45-day period, the BAA will temporarily close for the evaluation of proposals received during that timeframe. White papers and separate cost and technical proposals are requested.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for professional research and development firms with expertise in manufacturing technologies, particularly those related to textiles, clothing, and advanced digital manufacturing (Industry 4.0 and 5.0). Firms with capabilities in digital design, data integration, rapid prototyping, and scalable production within these areas will find this relevant.
The DLA is looking for partners who can help the DOD adopt commercial manufacturing advancements to meet evolving operational requirements.
How to respond
To access the full opportunity details, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid. Ensure you review all amendments, including Amendment 0003 which re-opens the BAA for white papers and revises clauses, and Amendment 0002 which answers pre-proposal questions.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Given that this is a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeking research and development, focus your white paper on clearly articulating your innovative approach to one or more of the MUST III Technical Areas of Interest. Highlight how your proposed solution leverages modern, digitally driven manufacturing technologies.
Ensure your cost and technical proposals are submitted separately as requested. For the technical proposal, clearly demonstrate your firm's expertise and past performance in relevant areas such as advanced manufacturing, textile technology, digital design, and rapid prototyping. For the cost proposal, provide a detailed and justifiable breakdown of all expenses. Pay close attention to the initial 45-day deadline for IDIQ consideration if that is your target.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Logistics Agency; the original posting controls.