600-Gallon External Fuel Tank Assembly
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force F-16 System Program Office (SPO) is conducting a Sources Sought Synopsis (SSS) to identify qualified sources for 600-Gallon External Fuel Tank Assemblies for the F-16 platform. This market research aims to enhance the F-16's unrefueled range and enable the use of modern, heavy standoff munitions. Responses are due by July 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
The F-16 SPO requires an estimated 250 rail sets (totaling 500 tanks), including tanks, pylons, aircraft installation hardware, initial spares, Technical Orders (TOs)/engineering data, and specialized support equipment. The procured assembly must increase range and loiter time while minimizing integration risks. Key functional characteristics include:
- Capacity: Minimum 600-gallon usable fuel.
- Compatibility: With existing ground support and fuel tank loading equipment.
- Integration: Capable of being loaded and structurally supported on F-16 wing stations 4 and 6 (Post-Block 40/42/50/52 configurations).
- Jettison: Seamless integration with F-16 Stores Management System (SMS) for safe jettison.
- Operational Environment: Capable of operating across the full spectrum of operational mission profiles.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research (Notice Identifier: 04069ae25a8e48f0b05de14f92b4337a)
- Purpose: Identify mature, Non-Developmental Items (NDI) for future acquisition.
- Potential Acquisition Vehicle: Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Acquisition Consortium Initiative (ACI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) through SOSSEC, Inc. Membership in the SOSSEC Consortium is required for eligibility for any future award.
- Set-Aside: None specified for this SSS; market research will inform future acquisition strategy, including potential small business set-aside considerations.
- Response Due: July 13, 2026, 12:00 PM Eastern Time
- Published: June 12, 2026
- Place of Performance: Hill Air Force Base, UT
Information Requested
Respondents are encouraged to submit White Papers (not exceeding 15 pages) detailing their capabilities. Information should include:
- Respondent Data: Company/Institute Name, Address, POC, CAGE Code, Web Page URL, and business size/certifications (Small Business, WOSB, EDWOSB, HUBZone, VOSB, SDVOSB, 8(a)) under NAICS 336413.
- Ownership: Domestic or foreign (if foreign, country of ownership).
- Role: Interest in being a prime or subcontractor.
- Product Details: Capability description, specifications, pictures, videos, drawings, test results, and ability to deliver 2 units within 6 months.
- Cost Estimates: Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) for various quantities and development costs (if applicable), including PHS&T, warranties, and training.
- Existing Contracts: Indicate if currently performing this work under a Government contract (provide contract number(s) and POCs).
- Commercial Solution: Indicate if the item is a commercial solution, and compliance with Buy American Act or Berry Amendment.
- Product Improvements & Risks: Describe potential improvements and associated risks.
- Small Business Compliance: How FAR 52.219-14 and 52.219-33 would be met if set aside for small business.
Submission Details
Responses must be submitted electronically via email to Heike Bell (heike.bell.1@us.af.mil) and Jennifer Eagle (jennifer.eagle.5@us.af.mil). Proprietary data must be clearly marked. All prospective contractors must be registered in SAM.gov.