How to bid on Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Instruction, Maintenance & Mission Support (UAS-IMMS) for the Army

What the Army is buying and why it matters

The Army Contracting Command - Orlando is seeking information from companies that can provide Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) instruction, maintenance, and mission support for the Army Aviation Center of Excellence (AVCoE). This is a Request for Information (RFI), also known as a Sources Sought Notice, which means the Army is gathering data to help shape a future solicitation, not asking for bids yet.

This opportunity is significant for vendors with expertise in flight training and aircraft maintenance, particularly for uncrewed systems. The Army is interested in understanding industry capabilities, relevant experience, and suggestions on how to structure the eventual contract. Your input can influence the final requirements and acquisition strategy.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

Responses to this Sources Sought Notice are due by May 20, 2025, at 4:00 PM EST. This is a firm deadline for submitting your information.

After the deadline, the Army will review the submitted responses to gain insight into industry's experience and capabilities. This information will help them develop a contract vehicle and finalize an acquisition strategy for a formal solicitation later. This RFI is not a commitment by the government to issue a solicitation or award a contract.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with recent experience in UAS instruction and/or UAS maintenance. The relevant North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes are 65112 for Flight Training and 488190 for Aircraft maintenance and repair services (except factory conversions, overhauls, rebuilding).

The Army is particularly interested in small business participation. If your firm is a small business, you should highlight this in your response. Companies that have provided similar services within the last three years, either as a prime or subcontractor, are encouraged to respond.

How to respond to this RFI

To respond, you must submit your information via email to [email protected]. The email subject line must be "UAS/IMMS Sources Sought Notice Response".

Your response should be a maximum of 16 pages, plus a cover page. It must be in Arial, 12-point font, with one-inch margins, single-spaced, and compatible with Microsoft Office. The cover page should include your company name, address, point of contact, DUNS, CAGE, and small business information if applicable, referencing the listed NAICS codes. Organize your response into three distinct sections as described in the RFI.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Since this is an RFI, focus on demonstrating your firm's capabilities and relevant experience clearly and concisely. Provide specific examples of past contracts, including contract numbers, customer names, your role (prime/sub), period of performance, and a brief description of services. Ensure your past work history is recent, meaning contracts are ongoing or ended no more than three years prior to the RFI posting date.

Pay close attention to the Army's request for comments on the draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) and acquisition strategy. Offer constructive suggestions on NAICS codes, contract type, structure, teaming, and small business set-asides. If you identify areas in the draft PWS that need more clarity, specify them and provide recommendations. This shows your understanding of the requirements and your ability to contribute valuable insights.

Address all questions in Section III thoroughly. If you intend to be a prime contractor, explain how you would handle subcontracting, especially concerning FAR 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting, if you are a small business. Provide your perspective on an appropriate transition length and whether the requirements support a Firm Fixed Price contract, suggesting specific line items if applicable. Clearly articulate how you plan to meet staffing requirements for instructors by the period of performance start date.