The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is seeking industry input through a Request for Information (RFI) for personnel to support the Operation & Management (O&M) of the cloud-hosted infrastructure for the Defense Retired and Annuitant Pay System-Modernization (DRAS-M). This initiative aims to enhance financial management for approximately 2.9 million military retirees and their beneficiaries by modernizing and consolidating the legacy system onto a commercial Cloud Service Provider (CSP). DFAS is looking for contractors who can provide services aligned with project objectives while ensuring performance improvements, collaboration with government and business partners, and adherence to established service agreements. The requested personnel will focus on project management, core infrastructure support, and cybersecurity services. Industry responses are encouraged to include relevant contract history and procurement options. The RFI emphasizes that it is for market research purposes only, not a solicitation for proposals. Responses are due by April 9, 2025, aiming to foster dialogue between vendors and DFAS to refine service offerings and requirements for potential future contracting.

The DRAS-M Maintenance Cloud Tenant RFI document addresses vendor inquiries regarding an upcoming contracting opportunity. Key points include that there is currently no incumbent contractor associated with the requirement, indicating this is a new initiative. The government does not have information regarding the acquisition strategy, contract value, or anticipated RFP release date at this time. Vendor questions pertain to the existence of an incumbent vendor and contract details, which the agency has clarified do not exist. This situation suggests that potential vendors should prepare for a new competitive process without prior contracts or contractors influencing the opportunity. The absence of specific information emphasizes the early stage of planning for this acquisition.

The document outlines performance requirements for contractors involved in transitioning, managing, and supporting the DRAS-M Tenant Infrastructure to ensure compliance with federal standards. Key objectives include the successful transition of work from existing vendors, the development of project management and change management plans, and maintaining core infrastructure support. Specific tasks are defined with measurable outcomes, acceptable levels of performance, and penalties for non-compliance, emphasizing the importance of documentation, communication, and timely reporting. Additionally, tasks like managing cyber security, conducting vulnerability assessments, and ensuring compliance with the DoD Risk Management Framework are critical. The contractor is expected to maintain operational efficiency, enhance service delivery, and innovate by researching emerging technologies. The document serves as a guideline for contractors to provide structured support, ensure security, and optimize operational protocols, thus aligning with the mission goals of federal initiatives and local RFPs by promoting accountability and performance excellence within the DRAS-M framework.

The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) issued a Performance Work Statement (PWS) for the Operation & Management (O&M) of its Defense Retired and Annuitant Pay System (DRAS) hosted in a cloud environment specific to Department of Defense requirements. The primary goal is to enhance financial management by implementing a modernized DRAS architecture using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles and ensuring compliance with DoD's Impact Level 5 security standards. The project requires skilled contractors for various roles, including cloud infrastructure engineers and cyber security analysts, who will be responsible for maintaining security, efficiency, and reliability of the cloud-hosted infrastructure. Key responsibilities include collaborating with DFAS teams, performing vulnerability assessments, and managing the lifecycle of software development through a DevSecOps approach. The contractor is expected to maintain high standards of performance, respond to incidents, and continuously improve services while adhering to strict security measures. The period of performance is set for one base year with four option years, with operations based at multiple DFAS sites in Indiana and Ohio. This initiative reflects DFA’s commitment to modernizing its financial systems while maintaining high levels of security and operational efficiency.