Multimedia Architectural Networking Design Optimization version 2 (MANDO v2)
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 Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for DISN Advanced Engineering & Transport Solutions (DAETS), formerly known as MANDO v2. This effort seeks qualified small businesses to provide full-spectrum engineering support for the Defense Information Systems Network (DISN), covering all elements, layers, and gateways, including IP-based, switched, terrestrial, undersea fiber-optic, and satellite communications. The Government is requesting industry feedback from companies with expertise in secure, reliable, and innovative engineering solutions. Responses are due by 2:00 PM CDT on an unspecified date.
Scope of Work
This opportunity requires comprehensive engineering support for the DISN infrastructure, spanning legacy, current, and future Department of Defense (DoD) and DISA capabilities. Key focus areas include:
- IP and Optical Networking, Cloud Computing, Access and Peering Gateways.
- Specialized Technology Expertise in areas like MPLS, TDM Elimination, MLSV, SIPRNet/NIPRNet Transport, High Assurance Encryption, JEDI, QoS, CSfC Ethernet, Transoceanic Systems, Transmission Security, DISA Computing Center Connectivity, Availability Design, Future Optical Networking, and AISR.
- Experience in terrestrial and undersea fiber optic telecommunications systems, IP networking, encryption, legacy transport, timing & synchronization, gateway servers, SDN, and NFV.
- Advanced Network Systems and Security design and implementation, testing, and validation.
- Global, Joint, and Multi-Domain Support, including Tier III Engineering Support and Escalation Services.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Anticipated Period of Performance: October 2026 to December 2031.
- Anticipated Place of Performance: DISA Headquarters, Fort Meade, Maryland.
- Previous Contract: HC102818D0024 / HC102822F6460 under ENCORE III Small Business Suite, held by CompQsoft, Inc. (Small Business).
- Published Date: January 21, 2026.
Submission & Evaluation
This is for informational purposes only and is not a Request for Proposal. Responses will be used to determine the availability and capability of small businesses. Interested businesses should submit a brief response (no more than eight pages, plus one additional page for other information) addressing required capabilities, special requirements, and knowledge areas. Submission is via email to kevin.r.francoeur.civ@mail.mil and erica.j.ackeret.civ@mail.mil.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This notice is a Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5), specifically seeking small businesses (including SDB, 8(a), SDVOSB, HUBZone, WOSB). The anticipated NAICS Code is 541519 with a $34.0M size standard. Respondents must demonstrate compliance with FAR clause 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting. Information regarding joint ventures or partnering is requested.
Special Requirements
- Personnel must possess a minimum of Secret security clearance, with some roles requiring Top Secret/SCI.
- Contractors must have a valid Top Secret Facility Clearance Level (FCL).
- Companies must be ISO 9001 certified at the time of award.
- Applicable Information Assurance Technical (IAT) or IA Managerial (IAM) training and certification requirements must be met.
- Specific knowledge areas include Carrier-Grade Optical and IP/MPLS Networking, and Defense Information Systems Network (DISN) experience, including Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC).
Additional Notes
Vendors are asked for feedback on innovative contracting methodologies. Proprietary information must be clearly marked. Further information may be found at www.disa.mil.