DoD Previews $80 Billion NextGen IACMAC at Industry Day Event

The Department of Defense (DoD) is set to hold a significant Industry Day on October 30, 2026, at the Mark Center in Alexandria, Virginia. This event will focus on the NextGen Information Analysis Centers Multiple Award Contract (NextGen IACMAC), which is poised to replace the existing IAC-MAC program that has facilitated research-and-development projects since its inception in 2018. The current IAC-MAC has a ceiling of $48 billion, but the upcoming contract will expand this figure significantly, with projections indicating a ceiling exceeding $80 billion. The DoD is aiming to create a comprehensive and competitive R&D ecosystem that involves government agencies, private sector companies, academic institutions, and non-traditional participants in technology and defense sectors.

During this Industry Day, hosted by the 774th Enterprise Sourcing Squadron and the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Critical Technologies, attendees will be briefed on the planned research-and-development requirements, as well as technical priorities and acquisition strategies. The DoD will offer insights into their approach while gathering constructive feedback on the strategic direction from industry participants. According to a spokesman for the DoD, this new contract stage is designed not only to solicit bids from a wide pool of qualified contractors but also to incorporate diverse input that informs the evolving needs of defense operations and technological advancements.

One critical component of the event is the request for feedback on Sources Sought Notice FA807527R0001, which outlines the specific areas of interest and the types of solutions the DoD is seeking from potential contractors. This will allow both established vendors and newcomers to express their capabilities and propose innovative approaches in alignment with the DoD's objectives. Following the expiration of the incumbent IAC-MAC in April 2028, firms are encouraged to use this engagement as a valuable opportunity to gain clarity on upcoming expectations and changes in the procurement landscape.

The IAC-MAC has historically been a substantial vehicle for funding, having obligated $16.9 billion through various task orders to date. The current contract has illustrated significant spending patterns, where the top five recipients—HII (Huntington Ingalls Industries), Booz Allen Hamilton, KBR, the MANTECH TSG-2 joint venture, and CACI International—account for an astounding 79% of obligations under the current structure. Thus, understanding competitor dynamics and potential shifts in procurement strategy becomes essential for businesses eyeing entry or expansion in this space.

As firms prepare their registrations, which must be submitted by October 26, 2026, they should prioritize obtaining an approved Visit Access Request (VAR) to gain entry to the event. The DoD emphasizes that late registrations will not be accommodated, highlighting the importance of timely participation in this unique opportunity to shape the future of the IACMAC. Overall, contractors should view this initiative as a means to familiarize themselves with government objectives while positioning their offerings strategically in anticipation of the recompete scheduled ahead of the contract’s expiration.

This event underscores the DoD's commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation within the defense technology landscape, which increasingly relies on partnerships with a variety of stakeholders. As such, potential participants should be prepared to discuss not just their capabilities, but also how they can contribute to a legacy of sustainable, informed, and agile defense solutions for the United States.

• Registration for the industry day is open until October 26, 2026.
• Attendees must secure an approved Visit Access Request to participate.
• The IACMAC is an essential procurement vehicle supporting Defense Technical Information Center operations.
• Compared to the current $48 billion ceiling, the new IACMAC will exceed $80 billion.
• Task orders worth $16.9 billion have been obligated under IAC-MAC to date.
• The incumbent program's five largest contractors account for 79% of obligations.
• The feedback gathered will inform the acquisition strategy and priorities for the new contract.
• The DoD is exploring options for structuring the new IACMAC, including potential pools for various entities.
• Contractors are encouraged to leverage the event for networking and strategic insight.
• This procurement will emphasize technological innovation and collaboration among diverse groups.