RFI Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) for Pandemic Response Program
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 Health Agency (DHA) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify industry capabilities for providing full lifecycle Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) support for its Pandemic Response Program. The initial focus is on N95 respirators, with potential expansion to other critical medical supplies. This RFI is for informational and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for a contract. Responses are due July 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
The DHA seeks VMI support covering forecasting, storage, inventory management, distribution, and replenishment. Key requirements include:
- NIOSH Certification: All N95 respirators must be NIOSH-approved.
- Lifecycle Management: Procurement, inventory management, storage, distribution, replenishment, and shelf-life monitoring of Government-Owned Material (GOM).
- Storage: Secure, environmentally controlled storage.
- Inventory Freshness: Maintain a minimum of 12-24 months of shelf life remaining through stock rotation.
- Stock Rotation Capability: Capacity to rotate up to 9,000,000 N95 respirator units.
- Surge & Distribution: Maintain 20% safety stock; capability to ship within 24-72 hours for CONUS (72 hours to final destination) and OCONUS (72 hours to Medical Air Bridge).
- Reporting & Compliance: Monthly inventory/shipping reports and compliance with federal regulations (FDA, OSHA, DOT).
- Supply Chain Security: Sourcing from TAA-compliant countries and annual risk assessments.
Information Requested from Industry
Respondents should provide details on:
- Corporate Experience: VMI programs, warehouse networks, GOM management, and business/fee structures.
- Technical/Operational Capabilities: Inventory management systems, regulatory compliance, recall handling, and end-of-contract inventory disposition.
- Modernization & AI: Potential applications of AI/ML in forecasting, optimization, supply chain resiliency, reporting, and logistics.
- Supply Chain & Risk Management: TAA compliance documentation and risk mitigation processes.
- General Information: Obstacles faced in similar procurements and recommendations for future RFPs.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: July 17, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT
- Published: June 11, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is strictly for market research; no contract will be awarded. The Government will not pay for any information or administrative costs incurred. Mark any proprietary information. Submissions become Government property.
Points of Contact
- Mr. Jared D. Acre (jared.d.acre.civ@health.mil)
- Mr. Patrick M. Younkins (patrick.m.younkins.civ@health.mil)