# 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. Published 2026-10-30 by TGOs. Canonical: https://tgos.io/news/2026/10/30/air-force-weighs-small-business-set-aside-for-simulator/ The Air Force is surveying industry capability for a planned Simulator Common Architecture Requirements and Standards contract, known as SCARS.[1] It posted the sources-sought notice Oct. 29, 2026.[1] The responses will help the Air Force decide whether to open the SCARS solicitation to unrestricted competition or reserve it for small businesses.[1] 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.[1] A transition of up to six months would lead to full operational performance in calendar 2031.[1] The proposed structure includes a four-year base period and six one-year options.[1] Those dates and structures are notional and subject to change based on market research and acquisition strategy approval.[1] ## Why it matters 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