PWS_2026-2032.docx

Crimson Sky – Performance Work Statement (PWS) Submission Summary Cover Page Prepared for internal administrative use by 7th Air Force Public Affairs Date: 9 December 2025

1. Submission Details Submitting Entity: Oriental Press Inc.

Recipient Office: 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA) Submission Date: 13 November 2025 Submission Method: Email to 7 AF/PA (Mr. Park)

2. Documents Provided

- Crimson Sky – Performance Work Statement (Updated PWS 2026–2032)

- Market Research Notes / Supporting Data

- Administrative Appendix (per 7 AF/PA guidance)

3. Remarks

- The document package was submitted in accordance with the contracting timeline shared by 7 AF/PA.

- Further updates, corrections, or additions will be made upon direction from 7 AF/PA.

- This cover page is provided only to assist 7 AF/PA with internal administrative flow.

SECTION 1 — English Version (Final Reinforced Edition) SECTION 1. Purpose In accordance with AFI 35-101 §2.5, which states that “Installation or Major Command commanders may be the publisher of CE publications,” Crimson Sky is hereby designated as an official public affairs publication whose Publisher is the Commander of the Seventh Air Force (7 AF/CC).

This Performance Work Statement (PWS) establishes that Crimson Sky is a “NO-COST Government Publication,” imposing zero financial burden on the U.S. Air Force, and operates as a Civilian Enterprise (CE) publication under AFI 35-101 and all applicable regulations.

The purposes of this PWS are as follows:

1. Establish a clear Public Affairs approval structure

· All articles, photographs, and editorial content shall be provided, reviewed, or approved by 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA).

· The Contractor shall produce, print, and distribute only PA-approved content.

2. Define roles and responsibilities between the Contractor and 7 AF/PA

· 7 AF/PA: Content provision, review, approval, and oversight of policy compliance

· Contractor: Technical and operational execution of production, printing, and distribution

3. Establish production, printing, and distribution requirements

· This PWS defines all procedures and requirements necessary for the full operation of Crimson Sky, including production schedules, quality standards, approval procedures, security compliance, and continuity of operations.

4. Affirm the legal and administrative legitimacy of the CE model

· As a CE publication, commercial advertising is permitted, but all advertisements require prior review and approval by 7 AF/PA.

· Crimson Sky is a public information service for the U.S. Air Force community, not a commercial profit-driven product.

This PWS serves as the authoritative document governing all activities related to the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

SECTION 2. Overview Crimson Sky is an official public affairs publication operating under the authority of the Commander, Seventh Air Force (7 AF/CC) and is designated as a NO-COST Government Publication produced under the Civilian Enterprise (CE) structure in accordance with AFI 35-101.

The publication operates under the following framework:

1. Content Provision and Approval (7 AF/PA Responsibility) All editorial content—including articles, photographs, captions, and graphics—is provided or formally approved by 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA).

7 AF/PA retains full authority for content review, policy compliance, and final approval.

No material may be produced or printed without prior approval from 7 AF/PA.

2. Production, Printing, and Distribution (Contractor Responsibility) The Contractor shall produce, print, and distribute Crimson Sky using only content approved by 7 AF/PA.

The Contractor is responsible for all technical and operational processes—file preparation, production workflow, quality assurance, and distribution—while adhering to schedules and guidance established by 7 AF/PA.

3. Advertising (CE Model Requirements) Advertising may be included as authorized under the CE model; however, all advertisements must be reviewed and approved by 7 AF/PA to ensure compliance with public affairs policies.

Advertisements must not contain prohibited content, biased or misleading information, or material inconsistent with military standards or community values.

4. Public Information Mission Crimson Sky exists to provide accurate, timely, and relevant public information to U.S. Air Force personnel and their families in Korea.

The publication serves the community and is not intended as a commercial product or a platform for private gain.

5. Authority of This PWS This PWS establishes the official standards, roles, responsibilities, and processes governing all activities related to the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

All parties—7 AF/CC, 7 AF/PA, and the Contractor—shall operate in compliance with this document.

SECTION 3. SCOPE

The scope of work required under this Performance Work Statement (PWS) includes all tasks related to the production, printing, and distribution of the Crimson Sky newspaper (CS). The Contractor shall support all processes necessary to ensure that CS is produced accurately and in a timely manner, based on content approved by the 7th Air Force Public Affairs Office (7 AF/PA).

The authority to publish CS rests with the Commander, 7th Air Force, and all final approval authority for production and distribution remains with 7 AF/PA.

1. Production Based on Approved Content

· Prepare print-ready files based on final, approved content (text, images, and layout files) provided by 7 AF/PA.

· The Contractor shall not modify, delete, or add any editorial content.

· Prior to printing, the Contractor shall review files for typographical errors, alignment issues, and color inconsistencies, and notify 7 AF/PA as required to support the approval process.

2. Commercial-Quality Printing Services

· Print CS using commercial-grade paper, ink quality, color standards, binding, and finishing processes.

· Printing shall begin only after final digital proof approval from 7 AF/PA.

3. Distribution to U.S. Military Installations in the Republic of Korea

· Distribute CS to all U.S. military installations in the Republic of Korea according to the distribution list approved by 7 AF/PA.

· Primary distribution locations include, but are not limited to:

· Osan Air Base

· Kunsan Air Base

· USAG Humphreys

· USAG Daegu (as required)

· Distribution-related documents shall be submitted only upon request from 7 AF/PA.

4. Resource and Equipment Management

· Maintain all necessary printing equipment, transportation vehicles, logistics resources, and personnel to support uninterrupted production and distribution.

· Maintain backup and contingency plans to address unexpected issues such as equipment failure or transportation delays.

5. Compliance with Applicable Regulations and Security Requirements

· Perform all tasks in compliance with AFI 35-101, AR 360-1, USFK public affairs policy, and installation-level security and access regulations.

· Comply with SOFA 700-19 requirements for installation access and related security procedures.

SECTION 4. APPLICABLE DIRECTIVES

The Contractor shall perform all tasks described in this Performance Work Statement (PWS) in compliance with the following directives, regulations, and policies governing the production, printing, and distribution of the Crimson Sky newspaper (CS). The Contractor is responsible for understanding and adhering to all applicable guidance.

1. AFI 35-101, Public Affairs

· Establishes policy and procedures for Air Force public affairs operations. CS is governed under the Command Information (CI) provisions of this instruction.

2. AR 360-1, The Army Public Affairs Program

· Provides public affairs guidance applicable throughout U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) and is applied to CS as a supporting publication within the region.

3. DoDI 5120.4, Department of Defense Newspapers, Magazines, and Civilian Enterprise Publications

· Establishes standards and procedures for DoD newspapers, magazines, and CE (Civilian Enterprise) publications.

4. USFK Public Affairs Policies (USFK 360 Series)

· Includes USFK public affairs guidance and information dissemination procedures applicable to CS operations.

5. Installation Access and Security Regulations (including SOFA 700-19)

· Governs access to U.S. military installations in the Republic of Korea and outlines security requirements applicable to personnel and distribution operations.

6. 7 AF/PA Guidance and Approval Procedures

· Includes publication schedules, approval processes, editorial policies, and direction issued by 7 AF/PA, which serve as the final authority for all CS production, printing, and distribution activities.

SECTION 5. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

(English — Final Version for Submission) This section defines the roles and responsibilities of both the Contractor and 7 AF/PA to ensure the effective production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

These responsibilities provide the framework for coordination, compliance, and continuity of operations.

5.1 Contractor Responsibilities

The Contractor shall perform all tasks outlined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS) with professionalism, accuracy, regulatory compliance, and operational stability.

1. Production and Pre-Press Management

· Prepare print-ready files based on content provided or approved by 7 AF/PA.

· Immediately notify 7 AF/PA of any technical issues such as file errors, color discrepancies, or resolution problems.

2. Digital Proof Approval

· No printing shall occur without final digital proof approval from 7 AF/PA.

· The Contractor shall not initiate printing without explicit approval.

3. Quality Control

· All printed materials must meet commercial-quality standards for color, paper, resolution, and binding.

· If the printed product deviates from the approved proof, the Contractor shall reprint without delay.

4. Distribution Management

· Execute distribution in accordance with the approved distribution list, quantities, and schedule.

· In the event of access restrictions, weather delays, or logistical issues, the Contractor shall immediately notify 7 AF/PA and follow provided guidance.

· Distribution documentation shall be submitted only upon request from 7 AF/PA.

5. Regulatory and Security Compliance

· Comply with AFI 35-101, AR 360-1, DoDI 5120.4, and all relevant Public Affairs and security regulations.

· Ensure that only personnel authorized under SOFA 700-19 participate in production and distribution tasks.

6. Personnel and Resource Management

· Maintain sufficient personnel, equipment, vehicles, and supplies to meet all production, printing, and distribution requirements.

· Personnel must understand and follow guidance issued by 7 AF/PA.

7. Continuity of Operations

· Maintain contingency plans to prevent interruption of publication due to weather, equipment failure, vehicle issues, or unforeseen events.

8. Ethics and Public Service Standards

· As a Civilian Enterprise (CE) publication, prioritize the delivery of public information over commercial interests.

· Prohibited content includes unauthorized advertisements, biased content, or material inconsistent with military policy.

5.2 Government-Furnished Support & Coordination (7 AF/PA Responsibilities) To ensure that production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky are carried out efficiently and without disruption, 7 AF/PA shall provide the following coordination and support:

1. Approval Process and Timeliness

· Review and provide approval or revision guidance for digital proofs and all required submissions within the agreed timeframe.

· Delays in approval that affect the production schedule shall not be considered the Contractor’s fault.

· In the event of schedule changes or mission-related adjustments, 7 AF/PA shall coordinate promptly with the Contractor.

2. SOFA 700-19 and Accreditation Letter Support

· Coordinate with the Pass Office to facilitate SOFA 700-19 processing and issuance of Accreditation Letters for U.S. citizen and U.S. permanent resident employees supporting Crimson Sky.

· These credentials are essential for CE publication operations.

3. Base Access Support for Korean Employees

· Assist with the issuance of Base Access Badges, gate registration, and visitor authorization for Korean employees responsible for distribution and related duties.

· Such coordination shall be provided without delay to ensure distribution timelines are met.

4. Workspace Support at Osan Air Base

· To support continuity of operations, 7 AF/PA shall, to the maximum extent practicable, facilitate the Contractor’s continued use of its existing workspace located at:

Osan Air Base — Building S-806.

· Workspace access and related coordination shall be arranged in consultation with 7 AF/PA.

5. Provision of Policy, Security, and Technical Guidance

· Provide the Contractor with applicable regulations and directives, including AFI 35-101, AR 360-1, DoDI 5120.4, OPSEC/INFOSEC requirements, and 7 AF/PA guidance.

· Notify the Contractor promptly of any updates or changes to applicable policies.

6. Communication and Collaboration

· Maintain a designated Point of Contact (POC) for all coordination with the Contractor.

· Provide clear and timely feedback regarding edits, scheduling, guidance, and production-related issues.

SECTION 6. PRODUCTION & EDITING STANDARDS

The Contractor shall comply with the following production and editing standards during the preparation of Crimson Sky:

1. Content Compliance

· All articles, photos, graphics, captions, and text elements shall be based solely on content provided or approved by 7 AF/PA.

· The Contractor shall not independently generate or add editorial content.

· All editing shall follow Public Affairs guidance, including the Style Guide, Branding Guide, and Security Review requirements.

2. Layout and Formatting Requirements

· The overall layout shall follow the design format designated by 7 AF/PA.

· Typography, photo resolution, color standards, margins, and labeling conventions must comply with AFI 35-101 and 7 AF/PA production standards.

· Use of photos or images requires proper copyright clearance and prior PA approval.

3. Security and Accuracy Review

· All content must comply with OPSEC/INFOSEC requirements and shall not include any information that may compromise operational security.

· Upon identification of file errors, spelling/grammar mistakes, or factual inaccuracies, the Contractor shall immediately correct the issue and coordinate with 7 AF/PA.

4. Prohibited Content

· Unauthorized advertisements, political messaging, commercial promotion, or content that may appear biased toward a specific individual or group shall not be included.

· Content that violates U.S. military policy or Public Affairs review/approval standards is strictly prohibited.

5. File Submission Standards

· All edited files shall be submitted in formats required by 7 AF/PA (e.g., PDF/X-1a or high-resolution print-ready formats).

· Color mode must adhere to CMYK standards.

· File names, version tracking, and submission procedures shall follow 7 AF/PA guidance.

SECTION 7. QUALITY ASSURANCE

This section establishes the quality standards required for the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

The Contractor shall maintain the following standards throughout all phases of performance.

1. Compliance with Public Affairs Approval Procedures

· No material may be printed or distributed without prior approval from 7 AF/PA.

· When revisions are requested, the Contractor shall incorporate the required changes within the designated timeframe.

2. Print Quality Standards

· All printed materials must meet commercial-quality standards for color fidelity, paper quality, resolution, and binding.

· If the final printed product differs from the approved digital proof, the Contractor shall reprint the materials without delay.

3. Accuracy

· Any typographical errors, factual errors, or inaccurate information identified must be corrected immediately and reported to 7 AF/PA.

· If incorrect materials are distributed, corrective actions shall be taken in accordance with guidance provided by 7 AF/PA.

4. On-Time Delivery

· Crimson Sky shall maintain a biweekly publication cycle.

· The Contractor shall ensure continuity of publication even under adverse conditions such as weather delays, equipment failures, or vehicle issues, using established contingency plans.

5. Distribution Standards

· Distribution shall adhere strictly to the approved distribution locations and quantities.

· If any obstacles arise (e.g., access restrictions, weather conditions), the Contractor shall immediately notify 7 AF/PA and follow the guidance provided.

6. Security and Regulatory Compliance

· All content and printed materials shall comply with OPSEC/INFOSEC requirements.

· The Contractor shall adhere to AFI 35-101, AR 360-1, DoDI 5120.4, and all applicable Public Affairs regulations.

7. Continuous Improvement

· The Contractor shall continually assess production, editing, and distribution processes, and implement improvements in coordination with 7 AF/PA as necessary.

SECTION 8. SECURITY & ACCESS CONTROL

This section establishes the security and access requirements for the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

The Contractor shall fully comply with all applicable U.S. military security regulations and installation access procedures.

1. OPSEC/INFOSEC Compliance

· All materials, files, and production-related content shall comply with Operational Security (OPSEC) and Information Security (INFOSEC) standards.

· Sensitive information, operational details, or personal data shall not be included without prior approval from 7 AF/PA.

· Any suspected or actual security violation must be reported to 7 AF/PA immediately.

2. Authorized Personnel Only

· All personnel involved in production, editing, and distribution must be approved by 7 AF/PA and the respective Pass Office.

· U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents supporting Crimson Sky must obtain SOFA 700-19 accreditation and an official Accreditation Letter.

· Korean national employees must obtain an authorized Base Access Badge to perform assigned duties.

3. Installation Access Procedures

· The Contractor shall ensure that all personnel possess valid installation access credentials (SOFA 700-19, Base Pass, etc.) when entering U.S. military installations.

· The Contractor shall comply with any changes to installation security policies as directed by the command or 7 AF/PA.

· Distribution vehicles must be properly registered, and gate access shall be coordinated in advance through 7 AF/PA.

4. Material Handling & Control

· All production-related data, photos, and materials must be securely stored in accordance with military security requirements.

· The use of external storage devices shall comply with applicable security policies; unauthorized devices or media are prohibited.

5. Facility Access

· Access to Osan AB, Kunsan AB, USAG Daegu, and other distribution locations shall be limited to pre-approved personnel only.

· In the event of access restrictions or heightened security measures, the Contractor shall adjust schedules and routes in accordance with guidance from 7 AF/PA.

6. Incident Reporting

· Any security-related incident—such as loss, theft, or compromise of materials—must be reported to 7 AF/PA immediately.

· The Contractor shall follow all required reporting and corrective procedures as directed.

SECTION 9. Compliance Requirements The Contractor shall fully comply with all applicable U.S. Air Force Public Affairs regulations and U.S. Forces Korea base access and security requirements related to the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

These standards ensure the accuracy, legality, and integrity of the publication.

9.1 Compliance with U.S. Air Force Public Affairs Regulation (AFI 35-101) The Contractor shall comply with AFI 35-101 (Public Affairs Operations) as the primary governing regulation, including but not limited to the following:

1. Editorial Control by 7 AF/PA

· All content used in Crimson Sky shall be provided and approved exclusively by 7 AF/PA.

· No unapproved content shall be used under any circumstances.

2. Civilian Enterprise (CE) Publication Requirements

· As a CE publication, all advertising, editorial, production, and distribution activities must comply with AFI standards.

· Advertisements shall not include prohibited categories such as political content, religious proselytizing, gambling-related material, sexually explicit imagery, or any category restricted by 7 AF/PA.

3. Public Information Priority

· Public information for the U.S. Air Force community shall take precedence over commercial interests.

· Any misleading, biased, or unverified content is strictly prohibited.

9.2 Base Access and Security Requirements

The Contractor shall comply with all USFK and installation-level security policies.

1. SOFA 700-19 Base Access Compliance

· Only personnel approved by 7 AF/PA may access installations for production and distribution tasks.

· All personnel must complete required security briefings and follow current access rules.

2. Restrictions on Photography and Recording

· Unauthorized photography, recording, or documentation within U.S. military installations is prohibited.

· Any required documentation must receive prior approval from 7 AF/PA.

9.3 Printing Quality and Safety Compliance

1. Production processes must comply with applicable U.S. and Republic of Korea safety and environmental standards.

2. Adequate packaging, handling, and transportation procedures shall be maintained to prevent damage during delivery.

9.4 Documentation and Records Compliance

1. Distribution-related records (quantities, routes, schedules) shall be provided only upon request by 7 AF/PA.

2. Approved content and related materials shall not be released externally and must be securely stored.

9.5 Legal Compliance

1. All tasks performed shall comply with applicable U.S. Federal law, DoD policies, USAF regulations, and Republic of Korea law.

2. In the event of any regulatory violation, the Contractor shall immediately notify 7 AF/PA and follow all instructions provided.

SECTION 10. Production & Approval Procedures — English (Complete Final Version) SECTION 10. Production & Approval Procedures This section establishes the required processes for the production, review, approval, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky to ensure full compliance with 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA) policies and Civilian Enterprise (CE) publication standards.

10.1 Content Provision and Editorial Standards

1. 7 AF/PA retains full authority for the provision, review, and approval of all editorial content, including articles, photographs, graphics, and captions.

2. The Contractor shall prepare page layouts, design elements, and overall composition in accordance with 7 AF/PA guidance and established public affairs style standards.

3. As a CE publication, all commercial advertisements must be clearly separated from editorial content.

10.2 Submission of Digital Proof

1. Prior to each issue’s publication, the Contractor shall submit a complete digital proof (final PDF) to 7 AF/PA for review.

2. The digital proof shall include:

· All editorial content

· All advertisements and placements

· Page numbers and full page layout

3. The submission method shall follow the format designated by 7 AF/PA (e.g., secure email, DoD-approved file transfer system, etc.).

10.3 PAO Review and Revision Requests

1. 7 AF/PA will review the submitted digital proof and may request revisions for:

· Accuracy and clarity

· Style and tone compliance

· Operational security (OPSEC) considerations

· Advertising approval and placement requirements

2. The Contractor shall implement requested revisions promptly and accurately, and resubmit the corrected proof for further review if required.

3. No printing may occur without explicit “Final Approval” from 7 AF/PA.

10.4 Final Print Authorization

1. Printing shall commence only after 7 AF/PA issues final digital proof approval.

2. Upon approval, the Contractor must immediately initiate printing and ensure that all printed copies match the approved proof exactly.

3. Printing without prior approval constitutes a contract breach.

10.5 Production Quality Standards

The Contractor shall ensure that printed copies meet the following professional standards:

1. Color accuracy and consistency

2. Uniform print quality with no defects

3. Proper folding, trimming, and finishing

4. Full alignment with the approved digital proof If any discrepancies or defects occur, the Contractor shall conduct a reprint at no cost to the Government.

10.6 Schedule Compliance

1. Production schedules shall align with timelines pre-coordinated with 7 AF/PA.

2. Schedules may be adjusted due to U.S. Air Force mission requirements, holidays, operational tempo, base access restrictions, or other official circumstances.

3. The Contractor shall follow all updated scheduling directives issued by 7 AF/PA.

10.7 File Retention and Material Management

1. All editorial files, photographs, layout files, and advertising materials shall be secured and stored in accordance with applicable public affairs and operational security policies.

2. The Contractor shall provide original files, source materials, or documentation upon request by 7 AF/PA or the Contracting Office.

3. Unauthorized sharing or external distribution of production materials is strictly prohibited.

Section 11. Distribution Standards

11.1 General Distribution Principles

The contractor shall perform distribution accurately and in accordance with the approved schedule and quantities.

If any issues arise during distribution (e.g., access restrictions, weather, transportation, or logistical problems), the contractor shall immediately notify 7th AF/PA and follow the provided guidance.

The contractor shall submit a distribution status report only when requested by 7th AF/PA.

11.2 Primary Distribution Locations

Distribution shall include, but not be limited to, the following locations:

· Osan Air Base

· Kunsan Air Base

· USAG Humphreys (Primary Hub)

· USAG Daegu (as required)

11.3 Distribution Within USAG Humphreys

Distribution to major public facilities within USAG Humphreys (PAO-designated buildings, centers, and offices) shall be conducted in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established with 7th AF/PA and Eighth Army.

The contractor shall adhere to the following requirements:

1. All distribution must comply with the areas, quantities, and operational rules defined in the MOU.

2. For any new distribution locations or additional requirements not included in the MOU, the contractor must obtain prior approval from 7th AF/PA.

3. When distributing within restricted or controlled areas, the contractor shall fully adhere to installation security policies and PAO guidance.

SECTION 12. Copyright & Intellectual Property Rights

12.1 Ownership and Authority

· All intellectual property (IP) rights associated with Crimson Sky—including content, layout, design elements, photographs, and graphics—are the property of the United States Air Force.

· All materials produced under this Performance Work Statement (PWS) are considered official public affairs assets of the 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA).

· The contractor does not claim or retain ownership of any content created, printed, or distributed for Crimson Sky.

12.2 Authorized Use by the Contractor

The contractor may use Crimson Sky materials only under the following conditions:

1. Use is limited to circumstances explicitly approved in advance by 7 AF/PA.

2. With prior approval, the contractor may include Crimson Sky products in:

· Company portfolios (e.g., past performance documentation)

· Government submissions related to contracting

· Inter-agency coordination reports

3. The following actions always require prior written approval from 7 AF/PA:

· Posting Crimson Sky (full or partial) on the contractor’s website

· Uploading cover images or PDFs to social media platforms

· Providing printed samples to external organizations

· Using Crimson Sky for any marketing or solicitation purposes Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

12.3 Digital Posting and Online Distribution

· The contractor shall not post any Crimson Sky content—including PDFs, scanned pages, or cover images—online without prior written approval from 7 AF/PA.

· Unauthorized posting constitutes a violation of AFI 35-101 (Public Affairs Management) and may result in administrative action or contract limitations.

12.4 Protection of Information and Materials

The contractor shall comply with all information protection requirements:

· No content may be shared with unauthorized third parties.

· Any military-related information, images, or documents accessed during production shall be used only for 7 AF/PA-approved purposes.

· Security-sensitive information, if encountered, shall never be released or replicated under any circumstances.

12.5 Prevention of Copyright Issues

To avoid copyright conflicts, the contractor shall:

1. Use only properly licensed or copyright-free external materials (e.g., stock photos, illustrations).

2. Provide licensing documentation to 7 AF/PA upon request.

3. Submit copyright verification reports if directed by 7 AF/PA.

12.6 Requirements Upon Contract Termination

When the contract ends, the contractor shall:

· Return all production files, drafts, and related data to 7 AF/PA upon request.

· Discontinue any further use or storage of Crimson Sky materials (except contractor portfolio use previously approved by 7 AF/PA).

· Remove or retain online postings strictly based on 7 AF/PA guidance.

SECTION 13. Information Security & Confidentiality (PAO-Submission Standard, AFI 35-101 Compliant) The Contractor shall protect all information, materials, and data handled during the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky. The following standards apply:

13.1 Compliance with Public Affairs & Security Regulations

· The Contractor shall comply with all applicable regulations, including AFI 35-101, DoDI 5120.4, USFK security policies, and installation access requirements.

· Access to sensitive or potentially sensitive military information (operations, security posture, training details, etc.) must remain strictly within the approval scope of 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA).

· No unapproved content may be printed or disseminated.

13.2 Handling and Storage of Materials

· All documents, photos, graphic files, distribution lists, and any other materials provided by 7 AF/PA shall be used solely for official production purposes.

· Digital and physical materials must be stored and protected using:

· Password-protected systems

· Restricted sharing permissions

· Encryption when required

· Unneeded materials may only be destroyed or returned with PAO approval.

13.3 Restrictions on External Sharing

· Without prior written approval from 7 AF/PA, the Contractor shall not externally share any of the following:

· Printed or digital copies of Crimson Sky

· Cover images or page scans

· Internal production files (e.g., InDesign, PSD)

· Distribution lists or access information

· Posting to websites, social media, or promotional materials is strictly prohibited without PAO authorization.

13.4 Installation Access & Security Compliance

· All personnel shall comply with SOFA 700-19 and the installation’s security and access procedures.

· Contractor personnel performing production or distribution duties must have:

· PAO approval, and

· EAL listing, base pass, or SOFA-authorized access

· No entry to restricted areas (e.g., SCIFs, controlled zones) is permitted under any circumstances.

13.5 Mandatory Incident Reporting

The Contractor shall immediately report to 7 AF/PA if any of the following occur:

· Loss or unauthorized disclosure of materials

· Distribution to unintended recipients

· Any suspected breach of installation security policies

· Accidental or unauthorized online exposure of Crimson Sky content The Contractor shall follow all corrective actions directed by 7 AF/PA.

13.6 Requirements Upon Contract Termination

Upon completion or termination of the contract, the Contractor shall:

· Return all files, drafts, and materials as directed by 7 AF/PA

· Dispose of unapproved materials immediately, following PAO guidance

· Delete or retain online postings strictly in accordance with PAO instruction

· Maintain confidentiality obligations indefinitely, even after contract expiration

SECTION 14. Equipment, Resources & Quality Standards (PAO Submission Standard — AFI 35-101 Compliant) The Contractor shall maintain all necessary equipment, personnel, facilities, and resources to ensure the continuous, accurate, and high-quality production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky. The following standards apply:

14.1 Printing Specifications

The Contractor shall comply with the following printing requirements:

· Publication Frequency: Bi-weekly

· Print Quantity: 5,000 copies

· Printing Method: Commercial offset printing

· Color: Full Color (CMYK)

· Page Count & Layout: As provided and approved by 7 AF/PA

· Paper & Binding: Must follow existing approved standards; any changes require prior PAO approval

14.2 Equipment & Facility Maintenance

· The Contractor shall maintain all equipment required for production, design, proofing, printing, and distribution, including servers, workstations, printers, and vehicles.

· To prevent publication delays, the Contractor must have backup equipment and contingency plans readily available.

· All equipment shall undergo regular inspection and maintenance to ensure production quality and reliability.

14.3 Personnel & Training Requirements

· The Contractor shall maintain sufficient qualified personnel for production, editing, printing, and distribution.

· All personnel must fully understand PAO instructions, installation security procedures, SOFA 700-19 access requirements, and distribution routes.

· New personnel shall be properly trained prior to assignment to ensure accuracy and compliance.

14.4 Quality Control

The Contractor shall implement strict quality-control measures throughout all stages of production:

· Maintain commercial-grade standards for color accuracy, resolution, paper quality, and binding precision.

· If printing defects occur (color inconsistency, missing pages, alignment issues, binding errors), the Contractor must immediately reprint at no additional cost to the Government.

· The Contractor shall ensure the printed product always matches the PAO-approved digital proof.

14.5 Continuity of Operations

The Contractor shall ensure uninterrupted publication even in the event of:

· Equipment failure

· Vehicle issues

· Severe weather

· Power outages

· Unexpected personnel shortages When necessary, the Contractor shall activate alternative printing facilities or emergency distribution resources.

14.6 Safety & Security Compliance

· All equipment, vehicles, and facilities used for Crimson Sky must comply with U.S. Air Force safety and installation security standards.

· Only authorized personnel and vehicles may be used for on-base distribution, and all access procedures under SOFA 700-19 must be followed without exception.

SECTION 15. Safety, Compliance & Risk Management (PAO Submission Standard — AFI 35-101 Compliant) The Contractor shall ensure the highest standards of safety, regulatory compliance, and risk management throughout all phases of production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky. The following requirements apply:

15.1 Compliance with U.S. Air Force Safety Standards

· The Contractor shall comply with all U.S. Air Force (USAF) safety policies and installation-specific safety regulations.

· All equipment used for production, printing, vehicle operations, and distribution must meet required safety inspection standards.

· Any equipment posing a safety hazard shall be repaired or replaced immediately.

· Workspaces must meet fire, electrical, and mechanical safety requirements.

15.2 Personnel Safety Management

· All Contractor personnel shall adhere to installation safety requirements.

· When personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for distribution or production tasks, Contractor personnel shall comply with the standards designated by the installation or 7 AF/PA.

· During distribution, personnel shall follow all safety rules related to vehicle movement, weather, and pedestrian safety on base.

· Regular safety training shall be provided to Contractor personnel to prevent accidents.

15.3 Compliance with Policies & Directives

· The Contractor shall comply with all applicable directives, including AFI 35-101, DoDI 5120.4, SOFA 700-19, and relevant USFK installation security policies.

· Any task or distribution method that may conflict with security or PAO guidance must be reviewed with 7 AF/PA in advance.

· All corrective or supplemental guidance issued by 7 AF/PA shall be implemented immediately.

15.4 Risk Management & Emergency Response

· The Contractor shall maintain a Risk Management Plan addressing hazards that may affect publication schedules, including:

· Severe weather

· Vehicle accidents

· Equipment failure

· Power outages

· Sudden personnel shortages

· In the event of an accident or emergency during production or distribution, the Contractor shall notify 7 AF/PA immediately and take corrective action as directed.

· Alternate personnel, vehicles, and facilities must be available for immediate activation when required.

15.5 Incident Reporting & Corrective Actions

· Safety incidents, vehicle accidents, security violations, and information breaches shall be reported to 7 AF/PA without delay.

· Following an incident, the Contractor shall submit a corrective action plan and implement all PAO-directed measures.

· Additional training or equipment improvements shall be implemented as necessary to prevent recurrence.

15.6 Insurance & Liability

· The Contractor shall maintain all insurance required under applicable laws and installation policies, including vehicle, facility, and personnel liability coverage.

· The Contractor is fully responsible for damages or losses caused by Contractor negligence.

· The Government assumes no liability for Contractor-related accidents or damages.

SECTION 16. Performance Standards & Service Levels (PAO Submission Standard — AFI 35-101 Compliant) The Contractor shall maintain the highest standards of quality and service throughout all phases of production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky. The following performance standards apply:

16.1 Timeliness & Schedule Compliance

· All publication schedules (bi-weekly editing, proof approval, printing, and distribution) must fully comply with deadlines established by 7 AF/PA.

· If delays or issues arise—such as approval delays, printing errors, or distribution challenges—the Contractor shall immediately notify 7 AF/PA.

· Even during unforeseen circumstances (weather, power outages, equipment failures), the Contractor shall activate contingency plans to maintain the publication schedule to the greatest extent possible.

16.2 Accuracy & Content Integrity

· The printed product must match the PAO-approved digital proof exactly, without deviation.

· All text, photographs, graphics, and layout elements must reflect the approved version precisely.

· Upon discovery of any error, the Contractor shall take immediate corrective action, including reprinting when necessary.

16.3 Quality of Production & Distribution

· Printed materials must meet or exceed commercial standards for color accuracy, resolution, paper quality, and binding.

· Distribution shall be executed in exact accordance with:

· The approved quantity

· The approved distribution list

· The approved installation locations

· The Contractor shall ensure there are no missed delivery points, over-delivery, or mis-delivery.

16.4 PAO Coordination & Communication

· The Contractor shall provide all required information, documentation, and reporting to 7 AF/PA in a timely manner.

· Distribution reports shall be submitted only when requested by 7 AF/PA.

· All PAO guidance, instructions, and corrective actions must be implemented without delay.

· Any proposed changes in production or distribution procedures must receive prior PAO approval.

16.5 Customer Service & Professional Conduct

· The Contractor shall prioritize public service and information delivery over commercial interests, consistent with CE (Civilian Enterprise) publication standards.

· All Contractor personnel shall interact with 7 AF/PA and installation representatives in a professional, cooperative, and courteous manner.

· No unapproved or prohibited advertisements, content, or messages shall be included in Crimson Sky.

16.6 Non-Interruption of Service

· The Contractor shall maintain operations without interruption despite personnel shortages, equipment failures, or vehicle issues.

· Backup personnel and equipment shall be available for immediate use when required.

SECTION 17. Reporting, Communication & Approval Process (PAO Submission Standard — AFI 35-101 Compliant) The Contractor shall maintain close coordination with 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA) throughout all phases of production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky. All key steps require formal approval and documented communication.

17.1 PAO Approval Process

· All content, layouts, photographs, graphics, and advertisements (if applicable) must be approved by 7 AF/PA prior to printing.

· No printing of any kind may begin without final digital proof approval from 7 AF/PA.

· When submitting materials for approval, the Contractor shall provide all required files in the correct formats as instructed by PAO.

17.2 Formal Communication Protocol

· Email shall serve as the official method of communication between the Contractor and 7 AF/PA.

· All matters—including schedule changes, delays, issues, and emergency notifications—must be documented via email to ensure proper record-keeping.

· Phone calls or in-person discussions may occur when necessary, but they must be followed by an email summary to maintain official documentation.

17.3 Reporting Requirements

The Contractor shall comply with the following reporting obligations:

1. Distribution Report

· Submitted only when requested by 7 AF/PA.

· Shall include quantity delivered, delivery locations, and distribution timelines.

2. Incident or Delay Report

· Required immediately when issues such as printing errors, schedule delays, vehicle failures, or weather disruptions occur.

· Contractor shall follow all instructions provided by 7 AF/PA.

3. Corrective Action Report

· Submitted when requested by 7 AF/PA to document steps taken to resolve issues or prevent recurrence.

17.4 Change Requests

· Any proposed changes to production processes, printing specifications, distribution routes, or schedules require prior written approval (email approval acceptable) from 7 AF/PA.

· Unauthorized changes may constitute non-compliance with contract requirements.

17.5 Document Submission Standards

· All documents must be submitted in formats approved by PAO (such as PDF, JPG, INDD, or others as directed).

· Files shall be submitted via email or through a PAO-designated system.

17.6 Communication Quality

· Contractor shall implement all PAO instructions promptly and accurately.

· Informal or undocumented communication shall be avoided to prevent misunderstandings.

· When necessary, the Contractor shall provide advance updates to give PAO adequate time for review and approval.

SECTION 18. Period of Performance & Schedule (PAO Submission Standard — AFI 35-101 Compliant) This contract establishes the period of performance and publication schedule required to ensure the stable production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky.

18.1 Period of Performance

· The period of performance for this contract shall be:

May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2032.

· All work performed during this period shall comply with the standards and procedures outlined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS).

· Any contract extension or renewal shall be determined separately in accordance with 7 AF/PA and Regional Contracting Office (RCO) guidance.

18.2 Publication Schedule

· Crimson Sky shall be published on a bi-weekly basis.

· The primary publication day and associated production/distribution schedule may be adjusted annually or as required by 7 AF/PA.

· The approval sequence includes:

· Content delivery (7 AF/PA)

· Editing & layout (Contractor)

· Digital proof submission & approval (7 AF/PA)

· Printing & distribution (Contractor)

18.3 Major Milestones

The Contractor shall comply with the following major milestones:

1. Content Delivery

· Contractor shall receive content from 7 AF/PA according to the established schedule.

2. Design & Layout

· Upon receipt of content, the Contractor shall begin editing and layout immediately.

3. Digital Proof Submission

· Contractor shall submit the completed digital proof to 7 AF/PA for review.

4. Final Approval

· No printing may occur without explicit final approval from 7 AF/PA.

5. Printing & Binding

· Contractor shall print and bind the product exactly as approved in the digital proof.

6. Distribution

· Contractor shall distribute according to the approved schedule and distribution list.

18.4 Schedule Adjustments

· Publication, production, and distribution schedules may be adjusted as required by 7 AF/PA.

· If adjustments are necessary, the Contractor must obtain prior written approval from 7 AF/PA.

· When delays or scheduling conflicts are anticipated, the Contractor shall immediately notify 7 AF/PA and coordinate an adjusted timeline.

SECTION 19. Security, Access & Personnel Eligibility (PAO Submission Standard — AFI 35-101 Compliant) The Contractor shall ensure that all personnel involved in the production, printing, and distribution of Crimson Sky fully comply with installation security and access requirements. The following standards apply:

19.1 Compliance with SOFA & Installation Access Rules

· The Contractor shall comply with SOFA 700-19 and all applicable installation security and access regulations.

· Only personnel approved by 7 AF/PA may participate in any phase of work (production, printing, or distribution) on base.

· All access procedures must follow the directions of Security Forces and 7 AF/PA.

19.2 Base Pass & Identity Verification

Contractor personnel are categorized into two groups:

1. U.S. Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents (SOFA Status Personnel)

· Approved in accordance with SOFA regulations and Form 700-19.

2. Korean National Employees

· May perform on-base duties only with an approved Base Pass or EAL authorization.

Additional requirements:

· All personnel must present valid identification for identity verification.

· Unauthorized individuals may not accompany Contractor personnel at any time.

19.3 Restricted Work Areas

· Contractor personnel shall perform work only within authorized areas of the installation.

· Access to SCIFs, controlled zones, and other sensitive areas is strictly prohibited.

· Distribution activities shall occur only along PAO-approved routes and at PAO-approved locations.

19.4 Vehicle Access Requirements

· Distribution vehicles must be properly registered and authorized in accordance with installation security policies.

· Drivers must comply with all on-base traffic and parking regulations.

· Required documentation (driver’s license, insurance, vehicle registration, etc.) must be available at all times during base entry and operation.

19.5 Personnel Training & Awareness

· The Contractor shall provide regular training on security policies, safety standards, and Crimson Sky-related operational rules.

· New personnel shall complete required security orientation prior to performing work.

· In cases of security violations or non-compliance, the Contractor shall immediately retrain or replace the affected personnel.

19.6 Liability & Consequences of Violations

· The Contractor shall immediately report any security violation, unauthorized access, or incident involving Contractor personnel to 7 AF/PA.

· The Contractor is fully responsible for all consequences arising from violations of installation security policies; the Government assumes no liability for Contractor-related issues.

· Upon request from PAO or Security Forces, the Contractor shall promptly remove or replace involved personnel.

SECTION 20. Advertising & Promotional Materials This section establishes the approval, placement, and management standards for all advertising and promotional materials associated with the Crimson Sky (CS) publication, including the operation of the Display Rack, in accordance with CE (Civilian Enterprise) publication guidelines and applicable Public Affairs (PA) regulations.

20.1 Advertising Approval Standards

1. All advertisements included in CS must receive prior approval from 7th Air Force Public Affairs (7 AF/PA).

2. The following categories of advertisements are strictly prohibited:

· Weapons, ammunition, or military equipment sales

· Adult entertainment, gambling, or similar businesses

· Medical or surgical advertisements that violate Korean law or USFK policy

· Political activities (PPP), religious proselytizing

· Any content that conflicts with U.S. military regulations or installation policies

3. Even after approval, 7 AF/PA may require modification or removal of an advertisement, and the Contractor must comply immediately.

20.2 Advertising Production & Submission Requirements

1. Advertisers must submit advertisement files in the format, resolution, and specifications required by 7 AF/PA.

2. The Contractor may adjust the file to meet printing specifications but shall not alter the content.

3. All approval procedures must be documented, and unapproved advertisements shall not be used under any circumstances.

20.3 Display Rack Management

1. Display Racks used for CS distribution shall be operated under the approval and oversight of 7 AF/PA.

2. Display Racks installed in any building shall not be moved, removed, or disposed of without prior approval from 7 AF/PA.

3. In the event of loss, damage, or improper relocation of a Display Rack, the Contractor shall immediately report the issue to 7 AF/PA and take corrective actions.

4. Display Racks are intended solely for official public affairs purposes and may not be used or modified by other organizations or individuals without authorization.

20.4 Approved Materials for Display Rack Placement

1. Only 7 AF/PA–approved promotional materials—such as flyers, brochures, or…