What this opportunity is
The Department of Defense is seeking a total small business set-aside for a commercial cloud-based weather intelligence Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform to support the United States Air Forces Central (AFCENT). This acquisition aims to provide a secure, managed service that delivers real-time and forecasted meteorological data, enhancing mission planning and execution. The notice type is a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, indicating that interested small businesses should track the opportunity closely for potential bidding details.
Analysis by Mindy, grounded in the SAM.gov notice.
Description
PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)
FOR
AFCENT Weather Intelligence Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) Platform
11 JUNE 2026
1.0 INTRODUCTIONThis Performance Work Statement (PWS) defines the requirements for the acquisition, implementation, and sustainment of a commercial Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) weather platform for United States Air Forces Central (AFCENT). AFCENT is the air component of United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), responsible for air operations and developing contingency plans across the area of responsibility. Mission success in this dynamic and often austere environment is critically dependent on timely, accurate, and decision-quality environmental intelligence.
Currently, AFCENT relies on a combination of organic and disparate weather information systems that present challenges in data fusion, accessibility, and operational tempo. The operational environment demands a shift towards more agile, resilient, and scalable solutions that can be rapidly deployed and adapted to meet evolving mission needs. This acquisition will provide AFCENT with a secure, commercially managed, and continuously updated weather platform. This service will enhance situational awareness, improve the accuracy of mission planning and execution, and ensure that airpower can be projected decisively and safely in support of AFCENT's mission.
1.1 SCOPE OF WORKThe scope of this PWS encompasses all activities required to provide, operate, maintain, and sustain a fully managed SaaS weather platform. The Contractor shall deliver a turn-key solution accessible through Government networks that provides real-time and forecasted meteorological and oceanographic (METOC) data, high-fidelity modeling, decision support tools, and user support. The service shall be performance-based, focusing on the availability, accuracy, and usability of the weather data and platform capabilities rather than the underlying methods of implementation.
The scope includes, but is not limited to:
Platform Provisioning and Data Delivery: The Contractor shall provide and operate its SaaS platform on NIPRNet within a FedRAMP-approved cloud environment. For classified capabilities, the vendor shall deliver data products to the Government-designated SIPR/JWICS enclave in a DoD-approved transfer format via an accredited cross-domain solution.
Data Integration and Management: Ingest, process, and make available a comprehensive set of global, regional, and local weather data from diverse sources.
Application and Forecasting Services: Provide an intuitive, map-centric user interface with advanced tools for data visualization, analysis, and the creation of mission-specific weather products.
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance: Ensure the platform complies with all applicable DoD and Air Force cybersecurity directives, including obtaining and maintaining the necessary Authority to Operate (ATO) on Government networks.
User Support and Training: Provide help desk support and virtual training to ensure effective adoption and utilization by AFCENT personnel.
Contract Management and Transition: Provide all necessary program management, quality control, and transition activities to ensure seamless service delivery.
1.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCEThe period of performance shall consist of a 3-month base period and options for a one 3-month extension and one 6-month extension.
Base Period: 3 months (performance commencing 5-10 days after contract award to allow for a post-award conference)
Option Period 1: 3-month extension
Option Period 2: 6-month extension
1.3 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.3.1 Type of Contract: The government will award a Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) contract. This is a non-personal services contract. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers.
1.3.2 Place of Performance: The place of performance shall be virtual at the Contractor’s facility. The SaaS platform shall be hosted in the cloud and accessed by Government personnel entirely over the internet via secure web browsers on NIPRNet. No physical on-site contractor presence is required at AFCENT Headquarters, Shaw AFB, SC.
1.3.3 Security Requirements: Contractor personnel do not require access to physical Government facilities or classified systems for daily performance of this contract. However, Contractor personnel handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) or technical data schemas destined for classified environments must be US Citizens and undergo the appropriate background investigations. If the Government determines that discussions regarding C2 integration require access to classified information, the Contractor shall provide personnel holding the appropriate security clearance. Any classified requirements will be executed in accordance with the DD Form 254.
1.3.4 Quality Control Plan (QCP): The Contractor shall develop and maintain an effective Quality Control Plan (QCP) to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The QCP shall be delivered within 30 days of contract award.
1.3.5 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP): The Government will evaluate the Contractor's performance in accordance with the QASP associated with this PWS.
PART II: DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS
Acronym
Definition
AFCENT
Air Forces Central Command
AOR
Area of Responsibility
API
Application Programming Interface
ATO
Authority to Operate
C2
Command and Control
CDRL
Contract Data Requirements List
COR
Contracting Officer's Representative
DFARS
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
DID
Data Item Description
DoD
Department of Defense
FAR
Federal Acquisition Regulation
FedRAMP
Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program
GFI/GFP
Government-Furnished Information/Property
IL4/IL5/IL6
Impact Level 4/5/6 (DoD Cloud Security Levels)
JWICS
Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System
METOC
Meteorology and Oceanography
NIPRNet
Non-classified Int…
Source: SAM.gov, as posted. Verify the current solicitation before responding.