Lower Lobe Loader with Maintenance options

The Department of the Air Force Air Combat Command, through the 379th Contracting Squadron, is seeking a Lower Lobe Loader (Aircraft Cargo Loader) for use at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. The procurement requires a single unit specifically designed for Boeing 747 and 777 lower lobe cargo compartments, accompanied by bi-annual maintenance options or extended warranty coverage that includes routine maintenance. Potential vendors must submit capability statements addressing their ability to provide the requested equipment, lead times, small business status, and intent to quote, with items required to be available on the Federal Supply Schedule. While this is a sources sought announcement rather than a formal solicitation, respondents should identify their NAICS code applicability (333924 - Industrial Truck, Tractor, Trailer, and Stacker Machinery Manufacturing) and any socio-economic program eligibility. The deadline for capability statement submissions is December 10, 2025, with the sources sought announcement having been posted on December 2, 2025.

The procurement carries no set-aside designation and is not restricted to small businesses, though vendors are encouraged to identify their small business status if applicable. No incumbent contractor is identified in this pre-solicitation notice, and no specific award value or budget range is disclosed at this stage. The technical specifications indicate the loader must feature a main platform lifting height ranging from 0.49 to 3.7 meters, a front platform lifting height from 1.8 to 3.7 meters, a minimum rated lifting capacity of 7 tons for both platforms, a diesel engine preference, and a cargo loading deck width of 3.26 meters. The requirement also specifies mechanical omni rollers to facilitate baggage bin positioning. While detailed pricing information is not provided in the pre-solicitation notice, the ongoing bi-annual maintenance requirement suggests a long-term service component beyond the initial equipment purchase.