ARMY OPEN SOLICITATION (AOS)
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 U.S. Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG) has issued an Army Open Solicitation (AOS) to rapidly acquire innovative commercial technology and research & development solutions for all Army Mission Areas. This perpetual solicitation aims to enhance Army lethality, revive the industrial base, and accelerate technology adoption. It utilizes various contracting authorities, including Commercial Solution Openings (CSOs) and Other Transactions (OTs).
Purpose & Scope
The AOS seeks to identify and acquire solutions that fulfill requirements, close capability gaps, or provide innovative technological advancements across a broad spectrum of Army Example Areas. These include, but are not limited to: Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, Sensors, Army Enterprise Business Solutions, Tactical Communications, Soldier Equipment, Ground Combat Systems, Missiles and Space, Aviation, Supply Chain and Logistics, Installation Support, Advanced Manufacturing, Army Test and Evaluation, and Data Engineering/Software (e.g., MOSA, Digital Engineering, Cybersecurity). The solicitation also highlights procurements subject to the Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP).
Contracting Mechanisms
ACC-APG intends to make awards by maximizing existing authorities, including FAR 6.102(d)(2), FAR 35.016, DFARS 235.016, 10 U.S.C. §4021 (Other Transactions for research), 10 U.S.C. §4022 (prototype projects), 10 U.S.C. §4023 (experimental purposes), and 10 U.S.C. §3458 (innovative commercial products/services via general solicitation). The default approach is to utilize CSOs, often leading to OTs for prototype projects, with potential for follow-on production contracts. Awards can be contracts or OTs, and iterative prototyping is a supported development methodology.
Submission & Evaluation
There are two primary methods for industry to engage:
- Active Capability Gap (ACG): Industry partners can proactively submit Solution Briefs addressing Army Example Areas. The ACG process, detailed in Attachment 1, involves up to three phases: Solution Brief (mandatory, 5 written pages or 15 slides), Live Pitch (optional), and Solution Proposal (optional). Solution Briefs are evaluated on Technical Merit, Schedule, and Viability.
- Call for Solutions: The Government will issue specific "Calls" for solutions as amendments on SAM.gov. These Calls will outline their own submission requirements, evaluation procedures, and timelines, independent of the ACG process.
Eligibility & Set-Aside
This opportunity has no specific set-aside designation but is open to all qualified entities. Companies must possess a Unique Entity ID (UEI), be registered in SAM, and represent their small business size and status. Non-traditional Defense Contractors are encouraged to participate. Companies must be responsible and not suspended or debarred.
Key Dates & Contacts
The Army Open Solicitation will remain open in perpetuity until canceled. However, individual Call for Solutions will have limited response periods. For ACG submissions and general inquiries, contact: usarmy.apg.acc.mbx.army-open-solicitation@army.mil. Primary Contact: Kristin Height. Secondary Contact: Robin Delossantos.
Important Notes
The solicitation documents, including the AOS and Attachment 1, are frequently updated. Revisions are highlighted in yellow. The Government does not fund the preparation of solution briefs or proposals. Non-Government advisors may be used in evaluations, subject to NDAs. RFIs posted under AOS are for market research only and do not guarantee a subsequent Call for Solution.