How to bid on Powertrain MAC IDIQ Recompete with the Department of Defense

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The United States Air Force, specifically the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, plans to re-compete a multiple-award, indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract. This contract will provide powertrain overhauls, repairs, and repair parts for both foreign and domestic target vehicles. The purpose is to maintain fully operational systems for testing, characterization, analysis, and evaluation of weapons development.

This is a significant opportunity for small businesses, as the contract is expected to run for five years with a possible five-year option, totaling up to ten years. The contract structure allows for adding new contractors and removing others over time, indicating a long-term need for these services and parts.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This is a pre-solicitation notice, meaning the official solicitation has not yet been released. The anticipated solicitation date is August 13, 2026. While this date is for planning purposes and subject to change, it gives vendors a target for when to expect the full details.

The deadline for this pre-solicitation notice was August 13, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. This notice was an announcement of the upcoming opportunity, not a request for proposals. The actual solicitation will be released on the SAM.gov website, and vendors should monitor that site for updates.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically designated as a 100% small business set-aside. The relevant NAICS code is 336992, which covers Motor Vehicle Body and Trailer Manufacturing. Companies that specialize in powertrain overhaul, repair, and providing related parts for vehicles, particularly those with experience in military or specialized vehicle components, would be well-suited.

Vendors must ensure they qualify as a small business under NAICS 336992. The contract is expected to utilize several different vendors, making it accessible to multiple qualified small businesses.

How to respond to the upcoming solicitation

The government will release the official solicitation and any amendments on the SAM.gov website. No telephone or written requests for the solicitation will be accepted. After the solicitation is released, vendors should regularly access the website to ensure they have all amendments.

To access the opportunity on the portal, click “View original source.” If you land on the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. A free account may be needed to view documents for some bids.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Prepare your company's registration in the Department of Defense System for Award Management (SAM) database, as this will be a prerequisite for receiving an award. Ensure your SAM registration is active and up-to-date.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements apply to this effort. A CMMC Level 1 self-assessment is required prior to award. Complete this self-assessment in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) and maintain it for the duration of the contract.

While this notice is not a request for proposal, it indicates that offerors will be required to submit a Capability Statement. Begin preparing a strong, concise capability statement that highlights your firm's experience and expertise in powertrain overhauls, repairs, and parts, especially for foreign and domestic target assets.