The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is on the verge of launching the long-anticipated on-ramp for its Solutions for Intelligence Analysis (SIA) III contract. This on-ramp will present an exciting opportunity for small businesses to join the 10-year, $17.1 billion contract that supports military intelligence operations for warfighters, planners, and policymakers both in the U.S. and abroad.
Originally awarded in 2019, the SIA III contract initially included 16 companies, six of which were small businesses. The contract provides non-personal services to support DIA’s critical mission of delivering actionable intelligence across the defense intelligence enterprise. With a five-year base period and five additional option years, SIA III is positioned as one of the agency’s cornerstone vehicles for analytical support services.
SIA III: A Key Player in Defense Intelligence
Since its inception, the SIA III contract has been instrumental in assisting DIA with intelligence analysis, support for deployed forces, crisis response, and training. The winners of the initial awards included some of the most prominent names in the defense contracting space. Companies such as BAE Systems, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Leidos have been key players in this effort, with incumbents like Fulcrum IT Services (now part of Huntington Ingalls Industries) and CSRA LLC (now under General Dynamics) also among the original awardees.
Notably, small businesses were given substantial opportunities, with companies like Bluehawk, Celestar, and Calhoun International securing their place on this contract. This inclusion of small businesses is critical for DIA, as it fosters innovation and agility—key factors in responding to today’s rapidly evolving global threats.
The SIA III On-Ramp: A New Chapter for Small Business Engagement
In a recent sources sought notice posted on SAM.gov, DIA signaled its intent to officially release a solicitation for the SIA III small business on-ramp by the end of the year. This will likely be the last opportunity for small businesses to join this lucrative contract, as DIA has indicated that all future updates and information will be shared on the classified side of the National Reconnaissance Office’s Acquisition Research Center.
This on-ramp will open the door for additional small businesses to contribute to the intelligence community’s mission, expanding opportunities beyond the six small businesses that were awarded seats in the original contract. As small businesses continue to play a vital role in bringing cutting-edge solutions to the table, this on-ramp is expected to attract a competitive field of bidders.
Preparing for the Final On-Ramp Solicitation
For businesses looking to participate in the SIA III on-ramp, now is the time to start preparing. DIA has made it clear that supporting task orders under SIA III can span up to five years, with an initial base year and up to four option years. With the final solicitation expected soon, companies must be ready to respond swiftly to this high-demand opportunity.
As the SIA III contract continues to evolve, Kinetic is monitoring developments closely and assisting our clients in positioning themselves for success. Whether you’re a small business looking to break into the defense contracting space or an established player seeking to expand your footprint, we are here to guide you through the complexities of the government contracting process.
