June 27, 2014

USAF Contract Augmentation Program IV (AFCAP IV)

The U.S Air Force, Civil Engineering Center Detachment 1, Tyndall (AFCEC) plans to release AFCAP IV sometime in late 2014.  AFCAP III has four incumbents and a $5 billion ceiling.  AFCAP IV is slated to have a $10 billion ceiling with up to 10 awardees.  The NAICS is 561210.  Here are some key ideas to keep in mind should your company consider a serious capture.

What Is Needed to Win?  AFCAP is a global contingency contract used for robust capabilities in remote, austere, and hostile locations.  Bidders need to show proven capability in large-scale OCONUS mobilization; full familiarity with international supply chain operations; thorough understanding of recruiting, vetting, hiring, and dismissing third country nationals (TCNs) and local national (LNs); demonstrated short-term task order mobilization; and a keen awareness of foreign tax and customs laws.

Customers Served.  Future responses may address regional conflicts, military exercises, nation building, humanitarian responses, or base operations.  End users could include the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, State, or foreign governments.

Contract Type.  AFCAP IV will be multiple award, indefinite delivery indefinite quality (MAIDIQ).  Task orders will be firm fixed price (FFP) but with some cost reimbursable elements.

Schedule.

  • November 5, 2012.  Industry Day
  • March 2014.  Draft RFP
  • July 2014. Final RFP
  • May 2015.  Contract Award. 
  • Oct 2015.  Contract Start

Six companies were awarded AFCAP III but only four remain:  Readiness Management Services (RMS) a subsidiary of IAP, DynCorp International, URS (Washington Group), and CH2MHill.  Bechtel had originally won an AFCAP III position but withdrew from the contract.  The Washington Group was awarded an AFCAP III contract but was acquired by URS.  RMS is by far the dominant awardee. 

What Should Bidders Be Doing Now and How Can Companies Catch Up?  Serious players need deep pockets and a tolerance for OCONUS hazardous work.  Find a worthy program manager ideally with USAF OCONUS Red Horse experience.  Build your team by filling technical holes in capabilities.  Know how to rapidly mobilize and demobilize.