Heavy Haul Tractor & Certified Operator (135K lbs / Class 1 Explosives) – Vandenberg Space Force Base

1.0 DISCLAIMER

This is a Sources Sought Synopsis / Request for Information (RFI) only. This is NOT a Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Quotation (RFQ), or an Invitation for Bid (IFB). This notice is issued solely for market research and planning purposes to determine the availability and technical capability of small businesses (and other corporate entities) to provide the required services. Providing this information is strictly voluntary and at no cost to the Government. The Government will not pay for any information provided in response to this notice. This inquiry does not obligate the Government to issue a solicitation or award a contract.

2.0 BACKGROUND

The 30th Contracting Squadron (30 CONS) at Vandenberg Space Force Base (SFB), California, is seeking potential Small Buisness sources capable of providing a specialized semi-truck tractor and a certified driver/operator to support the emplacement of rocket motors for the Trinity Mission. This is a mission-critical operation requiring highly specific equipment configurations and a high level of driver expertise to maneuver hazardous materials.

3.0 CORE TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

To be considered capable of meeting this requirement, the vendor must be able to provide the following equipment and personnel capabilities:

• Location: Operations will be conducted at Vandenberg SFB, CA.


• Haul Capacity & Payload: The tractor and operator must be certified to haul a combined total weight of approximately 135,000 lbs, which will include live explosives (Class 1).


• Operator Certification: The vendor must provide a driver possessing a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a HAZMAT endorsement. The driver must have documented experience in handling oversized, high-consequence hazardous cargo.


• Tractor Specifications: The semi-truck tractor must be equipped with an adjustable fifth (5th) wheel plate. To ensure maneuverability and clearance on the launch pad, the distance from the center of the tractor's kingpin to the farthest point of the truck frame cannot exceed 6 feet, 6 inches (6' 6").


• Government-Furnished Equipment: The vendor's tractor will couple with and haul a government-owned "Strongback" trailer. This specialized trailer is used for rocket motor emplacement and has an empty weight of approximately 50,000 lbs.


• Required Maneuvers: The operator must be proficient in precise backing and alignment maneuvers with the Strongback trailer, specifically including backing to rail sets and facilitating a "motor roll."

4.0 ANTICIPATED PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (PoP)

To accommodate the dynamic nature of space launch schedules, the anticipated contract will feature a 12-month PoP (August 19, 2026 – August 18, 2027). However, active operational days are limited:

• Mandatory Dry-Fit Check & Maneuver Test: One (1) day, to be successfully completed no later than two (2) weeks prior to the start of the live mission operational window. During this check, the driver will be required to physically perform the precise backing and alignment maneuvers with the Strongback trailer to ensure full compatibility.


• Live Mission Support: Currently scheduled for September 2–4, 2026.

5.0 SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Interested parties who consider themselves qualified to perform the above-listed services are invited to submit a Capability Statement. Your response should include the following:

1. Company Profile: Company Name, CAGE Code, Unique Entity ID (UEI), Point of Contact, Phone Number, Email Address, and business size/socioeconomic status under the applicable NAICS code.


2. Capability Narrative: A clear statement confirming your company's ability to meet the strict technical requirements, specifically:
   
   
   
   • Ability to haul the 135,000 lb Class 1 Explosives load.
   
   
   • Confirmation of the tractor dimension constraint (kingpin to frame max 6' 6").
   
   
   • Availability of a Class A CDL operator with a HAZMAT endorsement.
   
   
   
   


3. Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM): (Optional but highly encouraged) A preliminary estimate/quote for the services outlined to assist the Government with budget planning.