Ceremonial Horses
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's 1st Cavalry Division Horse Cavalry Detachment (HCD) is conducting a Sources Sought to identify vendors capable of providing Ceremonial Mount horses for Fort Hood, TX. This market research aims to determine the availability of sources for multiple future purchases of horses meeting specific breed, training, and veterinary standards. Responses are due March 13, 2026.
Scope of Requirement
The HCD requires Quarter Horse or Grade Gelding mounts, aged 5-12 years, and between 14.3 and 17 hands tall. Preferred colors are dark or earth tones with minimal white markings, including Sorrel, Chestnut, Bay, Brown, and Black. Horses must be saddle broke, ride on a direct and bearing rein, stand tied for grooming/handling, and pass a test ride conducted by an HCD representative. Veterinary requirements include passing a flexion test and physical examination, declared "Fit for Service" by a licensed veterinarian. The Government anticipates multiple purchases over time for replacements and additions.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Anticipated NAICS: 112920 – Horses and Other Equine Production (Size Standard: $1.5M)
- Response Due: March 13, 2026, 5:01 PM ET
- Published: February 24, 2026
Small Business Participation
The Government is considering this requirement for small business participation and encourages all socioeconomic categories (8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, SDB, etc.) to respond.
Evaluation & Trial Considerations
Initial evaluation and test rides will be conducted at the offeror's location. Horses meeting initial standards may be transported to Fort Hood for further evaluation, including a potential 30-90 day trial/training period. Final acceptance may be contingent upon successful completion of this trial. Interested parties are requested to provide feedback on commercial practices, pricing structures, risk allocation, and customary return provisions related to such trial periods.
Response Instructions
Interested parties must submit a capability statement (limited to 5 pages) including:
- Company name, point of contact, phone, email, UEI, and CAGE code.
- Small business status and socioeconomic certifications.
- Experience supplying horses for military, ceremonial, law enforcement, or specialized riding purposes.
- Description of available or typical inventory meeting the specified characteristics.
- Typical pricing structure and delivery timelines.
- Commercial terms associated with inspections, conditional acceptance, and trial periods.
- Recommendations to structure the requirement to facilitate small business participation.
- Identification of any condition that may unnecessarily restrict competition.
This notice is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation.