RFLP Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Center Development at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson, Eielson Air Force Base, and Clear Space Force Station
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 (DAF) is soliciting Request for Lease Proposals (RFLP) for the development of commercial Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Centers on underutilized land parcels at Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson (JBER), Eielson Air Force Base (AFB), and Clear Space Force Station (SFS) in Alaska. The DAF seeks monetary consideration for leasing these properties. Proposals are due May 29, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This RFLP aims to lease underutilized real property to non-Federal entities for the development, construction, and operation of commercial AI Data Centers. The DAF seeks to optimize the value of its assets in accordance with Executive Order 13327 and 10 U.S.C. § 2667. Offerors can propose projects for one or more installations or even sub-sections of sites. Properties are leased "AS-IS/WHERE-IS," and Offerors are responsible for environmental analyses and permits. The Government is not obligated to purchase AI Data Center services or power from the selected lessee(s), nor does it currently intend to use the AI data centers for its own workloads.
Key Requirements
Offerors must submit proposals demonstrating a viable commercial need for their proposed data center project, including market analysis, feasibility, development, construction, and operations plans. Projects must comply with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, including building codes, and Department of Defense/DAF Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection requirements. Prohibited uses include activities adversely affecting health, safety, morals, welfare, morale, or discipline of the Armed Forces, or those incompatible with environmental or operational constraints. An integrated financial model capturing capital costs, operating expenses, and revenue is required. Offerors are responsible for estimating demolition costs and reserves.
Contract Details
The lease term will not exceed fifty (50) years, unless a longer term promotes national defense or is in the government's interest. Consideration for the lease must be paid in cash and be not less than the fair market value. A cash payment of up to $250,000.00 is required at lease execution to cover the Government's direct costs, separate from rental payments. Lease negotiations will begin approximately 30 days after a Potential Lessee is selected, with NEPA compliance taking several months prior to lease signing. The Government may grant easements to utility companies for access. Site fire department and emergency services costs will be on a "per call" basis, determined during negotiations.
Submission & Evaluation
Proposals are due by 5:00 PM CT on May 29, 2026. Offerors must email their intent to submit, followed by instructions for uploading to a secure site. Submissions are limited to 40 pages (excluding certain documents). Evaluation will be a two-phase, best-value process based on four factors:
- Project Description (market analysis, feasibility, development, construction, operations plans)
- Return to the Government (proposed rental consideration and financial pro forma)
- Organization, Experience, and Capability (corporate structure, team experience, financial capability)
- Integrated Project Plan and Schedule (critical activities, milestones, timelines) Factors 1 and 2 are considered more important than Factors 3 and 4. The Government can make multiple awards at the installation level but will make a single award for a specific parcel.
Eligibility
Small business concerns are encouraged to participate. Certain RESS and PRESS contractors and their team members are precluded from proposing due to potential conflicts of interest.
Contacts
Primary Point of Contact: Julia A. Cantrell (julia.cantrell@us.af.mil, 210-322-4699). Secondary Point of Contact: David Mairs (david.mairs@us.af.mil, 361-290-3400).