What procurement vehicles does the Department of Defense frequently use for emerging technology?

The DoD increasingly utilizes Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs) and Advanced Research Announcements (ARAs) to rapidly acquire innovative technologies like uncrewed systems and directed energy research outside of traditional FAR-based procurement.

How can small businesses succeed in competing for DoD contracts?

Small businesses should target set-asides within the Defense Logistics Agency and military branches by aligning their capabilities with specific NAICS codes like 336413 for aircraft parts or 236220 for construction, while maintaining active CAGE codes and SAM.gov registrations.

Are security clearances required for all Department of Defense contracts?

Not all contracts require clearances, but many involving research, development, or sensitive IT infrastructure demand Facility Security Clearances (FCL) for the firm and personnel security clearances for employees working on classified programs.

Federal Agency

DEPT OF DEFENSE

10,000 solicitations and awards indexed. Spanning 28 sub-agencies and 200 contracting offices.

Federal hierarchy navigation10,000 solicitations28 sub-agencies200 officesTop NAICS 336413

Solicitations

10K

Federal records indexed

Sub-Agencies

Hierarchy branches

Offices

200

Contracting offices

Top NAICS

336413

36,345 opp

About

Mission, scope, and contracting profile of DEPT OF DEFENSE.

The Department of Defense procures advanced weaponry, aerospace components, and specialized facility construction to maintain global military readiness. Vendors compete for high-stakes contracts ranging from directed energy research and uncrewed aircraft systems to large-scale logistics and base infrastructure support.

Opportunity activity heatmap (2024-present)

Monthly posted opportunity volume from 2024 onward. Darker = more indexed records.

Count-basedPeak month: 18,6502024-2026

2024

2025

2026

This view uses monthly opportunity counts from the public dataset. Monthly obligation dollars are not available on these pages.

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DEPT OF DEFENSE contracting FAQ

Common questions about doing business with DEPT OF DEFENSE, navigating its hierarchy, and tracking solicitations.