Airlift Efficiency Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
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 (DAF), through the 763rd Enterprise Sourcing Squadron for the Air Force Operational Energy Office (SAF/IE), has issued a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) for Airlift Efficiency. This CSO seeks innovative concepts for dual-use propulsion systems for both military and commercial transport aircraft, specifically targeting Blended Wing Body (BWB) and C-17 Propulsion. The overall CSO is open until February 26, 2026, with the first Area of Interest (AOI) for BWB and C-17 Propulsion due March 13, 2025, at 1400 CST.
Scope of Work
This CSO aims to obtain innovative solutions or new capabilities to fulfill DAF requirements, close capability gaps, or provide technological advancements in airlift efficiency. The first AOI specifically requests concepts for a turbofan engine rated at 35,000-50,000-lbs thrust, capable of dual military and commercial use, compliant with current/future emissions, and SAF-compatible. Entry into service is required no later than 2030, with a production ramp-up plan aiming for 40 engines/month by 2035 and 80 engines/month by 2037. Concepts should also identify pathways for life-cycle cost reduction. Potential military applications include re-engining the C-17 Globemaster or new BWB platforms.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) leading to anticipated Firm-Fixed Price contracts.
- Overall CSO Open: Until February 26, 2026 (government may extend).
- AOI (1) Solution Brief Due: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 1400 CST.
- Published: January 8, 2026.
- Set-Aside: Unrestricted. Small businesses and non-traditional OEMs are encouraged.
- NAICS: 336412 - Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing.
- Place of Performance: Mt Zion, IL, United States.
Submission & Evaluation
The process involves two steps:
- Step One: Solution Brief. Submissions are limited to five written pages or 15 briefing slides. These will be evaluated on equal importance of Technical merit, Importance to agency, and Price, categorized as Selectable or Not Selectable.
- Step Two: Detailed Approach. Companies with Selectable Solution Briefs will be invited to submit a full written approach, including a technical approach (with SOW and project schedule) and a price schedule, and negotiate terms. A cost-share arrangement for development and initial manufacturing is required, with non-federal sources contributing at least one-third of the total prototype project cost. All submissions must be unclassified. Offerors are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for amendments.
Additional Notes
Prime level participation by foreign entities is prohibited; subcontracting will follow ITAR. Foreign national participation is limited to public domain information. Active SAM.gov registration is required for award. Contact points are Lisa Pendragon (lisa.pendragon@us.af.mil) and Capt Madison Tikalsky (madison.tikalsky.1@us.af.mil).