USAFA "Contrails" Pocket Reference Handbook – Volume 73 and Future Editions

The Department of Defense, through the 10th Contracting Squadron at the United States Air Force Academy, is conducting market research via a Sources Sought Notice for the production of the Contrails pocket reference handbook, Volume 73 and future editions. This anticipated Firm-Fixed-Price Requirements Contract under NAICS 323117 involves the annual printing, binding, packaging, and delivery of approximately 1,600 copies, with an estimated range between 1,400 and 1,800 units. The publication is a durable, hardcover, pocket-sized handbook measuring exactly 3.25 inches by 5.0 inches with approximately 240 pages. A critical technical requirement is the use of Smyth-sewn signatures for binding to ensure durability over a 47-month period; glued-only or perfect binding is explicitly prohibited. The project follows a strict annual timeline where the final approved layout is provided around December 1, and the finished products must be delivered FOB Destination to the USAFA in Colorado Springs by March 31. Contractors must provide physical or electronic press proofs for formal acceptance by the Contracting Officer or Representative before proceeding to mass production. All operations must comply with domestic sourcing requirements, including the Buy American Act, FAR Part 25, and DFARS 225. Interested parties must submit a capability statement of no more than five pages in searchable PDF format to Melinda Lingley and Dawson Hopkins by October 23, 2026, at 14:00 Mountain Time.