VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – Vandenberg Space Force Base has adopted the Simplified Base Engineering Requirements (SABRE) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Acquisition Contract Closed Bidding, marking a major shift toward transparency and efficiency in government contracting within the U.S. Space Force. On Aug. 13, 2024, this innovative approach marked the first instance of closed bidding being used in this manner within the Space Force, underscoring the organization’s commitment to adopting new and transparent practices to ensure access to space. By opting for closed bidding, the base aims to streamline the acquisition process while creating a more open and competitive environment for contractors.
“We spent many hours researching and discussing with staff to determine how to apply the sealed bid process to a program-level contract,” said Jeffrey Grilk, contracting officer for the 30th Contracting Squadron. “We also learned how to integrate electronic processes into a regulation that had not been updated to account for the new digital landscape.”
The contracts awarded through the SABRE IDIQ program at Vandenberg are intended to achieve several critical objectives, aligned with the future Vandenberg Spaceport. These contracts play a role in implementing approximately $60 million in construction projects around the base over the next five years, ensuring the safety and operational readiness of critical infrastructure.
“To increase clarity and promote greater transparency with the government contracting process, we decided to live stream the bid opening, allowing more contractors who may not be from the local area to participate,” said Allison Colding, 30th Contracting Squadron contracting officer.
The decision to use closed bidding for the SABER IDIQ contract was driven by the need for a fair and competitive process. Based on SABER’s previous request, it was clear that the basic requirements of time and competition for closed bidding had been met, paving the way for this approach at Vandenberg SFB.
“The previous bidding process used the lowest price, a technically acceptable method that included a technical evaluation of a typical project as a differentiator,” Grilk said. “We did not find any significant value added through this technical evaluation process for major IDIQ contracts. Therefore, we determined that awarding bids based on price and price-related factors alone would be sufficient.”
As Vandenberg becomes the Spaceport of the Future, the SABRE IDIQ contract plays a pivotal role in executing the construction efforts critical to mission success by ensuring that the base’s facilities and operational systems are at a high standard. The contract supports the safety, quality of life, and mission readiness of the guards and Airmen, as well as aligns with Vandenberg’s vision, emphasizing the importance of streamlined construction projects in advancing the Space Force’s strategic objectives.
“SABRE is one of two major construction programs at Vandenberg that is critical to expedite construction efforts around the base, while SABRE focuses on more streamlined construction efforts,” Colding said.
The decision to hold the tender opening live for contractors and broadcast it online reflects a commitment to transparency and integrity, which is crucial to ensuring a level playing field. This move not only enhances accountability, but also encourages broader contractor participation.
The closed bid approval of the SABRE IDIQ contract represents a pivotal moment for the Space Force in its quest to uphold the principles of assured access to space. This historic decision underscores the Space Force’s unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and efficiency in government contracting, paving the way for a new era of space procurement practices.
