Extreme Loads Tire Force Machine
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, specifically the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC), is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources for an Extreme Loads Tire Force Machine (EL-TFM) system. This system is intended for the Landing Gear Test Facility (LGTF) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, to address a critical capability gap in dynamometer force testing and static load presses. Responses are due May 4, 2026.
Scope of Work
The EL-TFM system will be used to test various aspects of existing and prototype landing gear systems and components for the Department of Defense. Key requirements include:
- Developing, designing, building, fabricating, and installing the EL-TFM system.
- Meeting specifications outlined in the "Extreme Loads Tire Force Machine Specification (Tire/Wheel)" SOW, dated September 17, 2025.
- Measuring vertical, yaw, and roll forces.
- Moving a loaded surface (approximately 30ft long, 5ft wide) at speeds up to 6 inches/second.
- Investigating footprint forces, deformations, tire wear, localized forces, tire profile information, and quasi-static stiffness.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research to identify business types, including small businesses, under NAICS 334519)
- Response Due: May 4, 2026, 16:00 EST
- Questions Due: April 20, 2026, 16:00 EST
- Published: April 22, 2026
Evaluation
This RFI is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or commit the Government to a contract. Responses will be used to identify potential sources and inform future acquisition strategies. The RFI requests information on business type (large, small, disadvantaged, HUBZone, woman-owned, veteran-owned) to assess industry capabilities.
Additional Notes
Companies must be registered in SAM.gov. The distribution of the Statement of Work (SOW) is restricted (Distribution Statement D); interested parties must contact the Contracting Officer to confirm eligibility. Costs incurred in response to this RFI are at the interested party's expense. Proprietary information should be minimized and clearly marked. Submissions are limited to 10 pages for Section 2.