Presolicitation Notice for 2 SLS Crane Rental
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 Space Force (2 SLS/DOC), has issued a presolicitation notice for a mobile crane rental solution to support the Mk21-b 'Trinity' mission emplacement and removal training. This training is critical for maintaining proficiency prior to the mission's Initial Launch Capability (ILC) in Q3 2026. The requirement is for a crane capable of lifting over 100,000 lbs at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Lompoc, CA. This is a Full and Open Competition. Questions regarding this presolicitation are due by April 21, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. PDT.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for one (1) mobile crane to support training exercises scheduled for May 5, 2026, with an option for an additional day. The crane must be capable of lifting a total of 102,673 lbs (22,293 lbs Strongback + 80,380 lbs training booster and rigging equipment) from a maximum 75ft radius with an 85 ft hook height. Key tasks include:
- Lifting and replacing the Strongback vehicle roof.
- Erecting the Strongback trailer to a vertical position.
- Lifting the training booster out of and back into the Strongback.
- Operating within Test Pad 01 (TP-01) at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The vendor must provide one (1) certified crane operator and one (1) rigger, ensure proper grounding, and provide proofload certifications for all rigging. Equipment must be UL/ETL approved, and the vendor should have knowledge of crane operations and rigging for explosive payloads.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation Notice
- Set-Aside: N/A, Full and Open Competition
- NAICS: 238990 – "All Other Specialty Trade Contractors" (Size Standard: $19.0 Million)
- PSC: W038 – Lease or Rental of Equipment: Construction, Mining, Excavating, and Highway Maintenance Equipment
- Performance Period: May 5, 2026 (2 days, with option for 1 additional day)
- Delivery: May 5, 2026, 0800-1000 AM PST to TP-01, Vandenberg SFB.
- Questions Due: April 21, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time.
- Published Date: April 7, 2026.
Evaluation
The Government intends to award to the responsible offeror whose quote represents the best value based on an evaluation of:
- Price
- Technical Acceptability
Additional Notes
One or more items under this acquisition are subject to Free Trade Agreements. The Government will furnish electricity, access to TP-01, dumpsters, recycling, security, fire protection, emergency medical services, and specific equipment including a Strongback, spreader bar, lifting beam, sling, and shackle.