State starts to set up global logistics recompete

The State Department has started the process to set up the recompete of its primary contract for logistics and other professional support services around the world.

Originally awarded in two batches, the Diplomatic Platform Support Services contract focuses on lifecycle support and operations-and-maintenance work with an eye toward being ready for contingencies. State awarded the full-and-open portion in 2019, then the small business set-aside pool in 2023.

Small businesses that are in or considering joint ventures to pursue the new contract are encouraged to respond to the request for information released Thursday, which represents State’s first move for the emerging DiPSS II effort.

State has obligated roughly $2.5 billion in order volume against the current DiPSS contract to date, according to GovTribe data. Parsons Corp. inherited its incumbency through the 2022 acquisition of Xator Corp., which has been awarded the lion's share of the work at 93%.

DiPSS II will continue the current iteration’s lines of work that include program management, construction, life support, logistics and supplies, medical and emergency operations, maintenance and security support.

State anticipates a large portion of the new contract will focus on locations in the Middle East and South-Central Asia, much like with the current version.

The RFI asks respondents to detail whether they intend to develop a joint venture that would pursue the new contract, plus explain the nature of the JV and who the managing member company would be.

State also is asking for information on a company or JV’s ability to hire qualified personnel for working in austere locations and whether a cost-type contract can be accommodated.

Responses to the RFI are due by 3 p.m. Eastern Time on April 16.