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 (Space Force) has issued a presolicitation notice for the rental of a mobile crane to support the Mk21-b "Trinity" mission emplacement and removal operations training. This requirement is for the Rocket Systems Launch program (RSLP) and will take place at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Lompoc, CA. The Government intends to solicit quotations directly from suppliers and award based on best value. Quotes are due by April 21, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for one (1) mobile crane solution 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. The crane will be needed for 2 days with an option to extend for an additional day. Tasks include lifting a Strongback roof, erecting a trailer, lifting a training booster, and replacing the roof. The crane must be operational inside Test Pad 01 (TP-01).
Key Requirements & Clarifications
- Crane Specifications: Capable of lifting 102,673 lbs at 75ft radius with 85ft hook height.
- Personnel: One (1) certified crane operator and one (1) rigger must be provided.
- Equipment: All vendor-supplied equipment must be UL/ETL approved and properly grounded.
- Experience: Vendor should have knowledge of crane operations and rigging for explosive payloads, though it's clarified that the boosters are inert and no actual explosives will be present.
- Base Access: Requires an Entry Authorization Letter (EAL) and background check for Vandenberg Space Force Base.
- Site Conditions: No known ground bearing limitations, setup footprint constraints, or obstructions at TP-01.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation (leading to direct solicitation for quotes)
- Set-Aside: N/A, Full and Open Competition
- NAICS: 238990 – "All Other Specialty Trade Contractors" (Size Standard: $19.0 Million)
- Product Service Code: W038 – Lease Or Rental Of Equipment: Construction, Mining, Excavating, And Highway Maintenance Equipment
- Place of Performance: Vandenberg Space Force Base, Lompoc, CA 93437, United States
Evaluation Factors
Award will be based on Best Value considering:
- Price
- Technical Acceptability
Key Dates
- Published Date: April 13, 2026
- Questions Due: April 10, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time (PDT)
- Quotes Due: April 21, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. PDT
- Crane Operational By: May 5, 2026
Points of Contact
- Primary: Chris Hummel (christopher.hummel.6@spaceforce.mil)
- Secondary: Moises Flores (moises.flores.1@spaceforce.mil)