Notice of Intent to Sole Source to RMS Cranes, LLC
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 is issuing a Notice of Intent to Sole Source a firm-fixed-price purchase order to RMS Cranes, LLC for 900-ton mobile crane rental services at Holloman Air Force Base, NM. This urgent requirement is critical for moving large concrete targets at the Holloman High Speed Test Track (HHSTT) following the unexpected failure of a government-owned crane, which jeopardizes national defense programs. Submissions from other responsible sources are due by March 25, 2026.
Purpose & Context
This Special Notice serves as a justification for a sole-source acquisition under FAR 6.302-2, "Unusual and Compelling Urgency." The failure of the government's 200-ton gantry crane has halted critical mission activities, causing an estimated 60% reduction in mission capability and risking $10 million in potential losses from delayed rocket-sled testing. Market research concluded that RMS Cranes, LLC is the only vendor capable of providing the required 900-ton crane and turn-key services within the necessary urgent timeframe (April 1 - April 24, 2026).
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a temporary, short-term rental of a 900-ton class mobile hydraulic crane with a fully certified crew and all necessary support equipment. Services include:
- Mobilization, assembly, and setup of the crane.
- Operation for up to 80 hours to move and set eight (8) large concrete targets.
- Demobilization, cleaning, and removal of all contractor equipment. The crane must be capable of lifting 320,000 lbs. at a 28 ft. radius and include full counterweight and rigging. Personnel must include a Certified Crane Operator, two Certified Riggers, a Licensed Truck Driver, and an SPMT operator, all with current certifications.
Contract Details
- Type: Anticipated Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order
- Period of Performance: Approximately April 1, 2026, to April 24, 2026
- Estimated Value: Approximately $427,394 (based on RMS Cranes quote)
- NAICS: 238990 (Materials Handling Equipment Rental), Size Standard: $19,000,000 (Large Business)
- Set-Aside: None (Sole Source Justification). The acquisition is intended for a large business.
- Anticipated Award Date: March 27, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
This is NOT a request for competitive proposals or quotes. However, responsible sources who believe they can meet the requirement may submit a capability statement, bid, proposal, or quotation for consideration.
- Submission Deadline: March 25, 2026, at 1300 MDT (19:00:00Z)
- Submission Method: Electronically to Brett Moore (brett.moore.6@us.af.mil) The government's determination not to compete this requirement is at its sole discretion. Steps are being taken to prevent future sole-source awards, including repairing the government crane and exploring long-term contracting solutions.