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 Army Open Solicitation (AOS) is a continuous special notice from the U.S. Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG) seeking innovative commercial and R&D solutions to enhance Army lethality and capabilities across all mission areas. This solicitation remains open in perpetuity until canceled, with specific "Calls for Solutions" issued periodically with limited response times.
Purpose
The AOS aims to revive the industrial base, maximize Army lethality, and rapidly acquire and deliver innovative solutions to the Warfighter. It leverages commercial technology advancements and research and development, including procurements subject to the Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP). The goal is to accelerate advanced commercial technology adoption, transform capabilities, and grow the supporting industrial base.
Scope of Work
ACC-APG seeks commercial, innovative solutions or potential capabilities that fulfill requirements, close capability gaps, or provide technological advancements. This includes basic research, applied research, advanced technology development, and prototypes. Solutions are sought across a wide range of Army Example Areas, such as:
- Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, and Sensors
- Army Enterprise Business Solutions
- Tactical Communications
- Soldier Equipment
- Ground Combat Systems
- Missiles and Space
- Simulation Training and Instrumentation
- Aviation
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Installation Support and Innovation
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Army Test and Evaluation
- Data Engineering and Software (including MOSA, Digital Engineering, Cybersecurity, SCRM, Kill Chain Resilience)
Contract & Timeline
This solicitation utilizes various authorities, including FAR, DFARS, and 10 U.S.C. for research projects, prototype projects, and acquiring innovative commercial products/services. The default approach is a Commercial Solution Opening (CSO) with Other Transactions (OTs). Awards may be contracts or OTs, with iterative prototyping supported. Successful prototypes may lead to follow-on production contracts or OTs. The AOS itself is open in perpetuity, but individual "Calls for Solutions" will have specific, limited response periods.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties can respond via two methods:
- Active Capability Gap (ACG): Industry partners submit Solution Briefs addressing Army Example Areas. This process involves up to three phases: Solution Brief (mandatory Phase 1), Live Pitch (optional Phase 2), and Solution Proposal (optional Phase 3). Solution Briefs are evaluated on Technical Merit, Schedule, and Viability. Detailed procedures are in Attachment 1.
- Call for Solutions: The Government issues specific "Calls" via SAM.gov amendments for particular needs. These Calls will outline submission requirements, evaluation procedures, and timelines, which are independent of ACG procedures.
Eligibility
Companies must have a Unique Entity ID (UEI), be registered in SAM, and represent their small business size and status. They must be responsible and not suspended or debarred. Non-traditional Defense Contractors are encouraged to participate. No specific set-aside is designated for the overall AOS.
Additional Notes
The Government will not reimburse companies for costs incurred during the preparation of solution briefs or proposals. Non-Government advisors may be used in evaluations, requiring Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs). All updates and amendments will be posted on SAM.gov, with revisions highlighted in yellow. For ACG submissions, contact: usarmy.apg.acc.mbx.army-open-solicitation@army.mil.