Request For Information-DODX Flat Railcars

The U.S. Army Transportation Command, in conjunction with the Army Contracting Command-Detroit Arsenal and the US Army Corps of Engineers, has issued a Request for Information under solicitation number DODXW912CH-26-S-C002. This initiative seeks to identify commercial railroad flatcar design and production services to replace the Army’s Defense Freight Railway Interchange Fleet heavy-duty flatcars, which face mandatory age-driven retirement beginning in 2031. The primary objective is to procure replacement flatcars capable of transporting two 72-ton M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams Main Battle Tanks or equivalent heavy tracked vehicles on a single deck, while maximizing capacity for potential future vehicle weight growth.

The government is evaluating several low-risk design concepts, including modernized versions of the DODX 40000-series and 41000-series, as well as configurations involving two flatcar bodies permanently connected by a draw bar. Industry feedback is also requested regarding open design concepts not previously considered that could meet technical requirements for rapid production and interchange service implementation. This market research supports a future Commercial Solutions Opening intended to foster a competitive procurement environment.

This sources sought notice is classified under NAICS 336510 for Railroad Rolling Stock Manufacturing and PSC 2220 for Rail Cars. There is no set-aside designated for this requirement, which is identified by the code NONE. Performance is centered in Warren, Michigan, and responses are due by June 26, 2026. The notice includes five attachments providing technical drawings of existing railcar series and information regarding the Commercial Solutions Opening process. Justin Fischer serves as the primary point of contact for this inquiry.