Contracts · Training systems
Air Force weighs small business set-aside for simulator standards contract
The planned SCARS contract covers architecture governance, security operations and fielding, with a notional 2030 start. Industry responses are due Dec. 10.
The Air Force is surveying industry capability for a planned Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards contract, known as SCARS. It posted the sources-sought notice Oct. 29, 2026.1
The sources-sought results will help the Air Force decide between unrestricted competition and a small business set-aside
Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards (SCARS)
The sources-sought results will help the Air Force decide between unrestricted competition and a small business set-aside for a C-Type contract to fulfill SCARS requirements
Responses are due no later than 3:00 PM EST, 10 December 2026 (a Thursday)
Source: SAM.gov sources-sought notice
Sources
The responses will help the Air Force decide whether to open the SCARS solicitation to unrestricted competition or reserve it for small businesses. The proposed scope combines governance of architecture standards with security operations and enterprise logistics and fielding in one contractor requirement set.1
The Air Force anticipates a contract start in calendar 2030. A transition of up to six months would lead to full operational performance in calendar 2031. The proposed structure includes a four-year base period and six one-year options. Those dates and structures are notional and subject to change based on market research and acquisition strategy approval.1
Industry responses that will inform the competition decision are due by 3 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on Dec. 10, 2026.1
Sources (1)
- SAM.gov notice record sam.gov