The Defense Logistics Agency’s Joint Enterprise Technology Services (JETS) 2.0 contract represents one of the most significant IT services opportunities in the federal marketplace. With a ceiling value of $12 billion, JETS 2.0 is the primary vehicle through which DLA acquires IT services — and small businesses have a meaningful role to play.
Having been directly involved in the capture and delivery of 30 task orders under the original DLA JETS IDIQ since 2017, I’ve learned a few things about what it takes to succeed on this vehicle.
Understanding DLA JETS 2.0
JETS 2.0 is a multiple-award IDIQ contract that covers the full spectrum of IT services for DLA, including:
- IT Modernization — migrating legacy systems, cloud adoption, and infrastructure refresh
- Cybersecurity — continuous monitoring, RMF compliance, and vulnerability management
- Enterprise Applications — development, integration, and sustainment of mission-critical systems
- Help Desk & End-User Support — Tier 1-3 support across DLA’s enterprise
- Telecommunications — network engineering, VoIP, and unified communications
Keys to Success for Small Businesses
1. Understand the Customer
DLA is a unique agency. It’s the nation’s combat logistics support agency, managing nearly $40 billion in annual sales of food, clothing, construction materials, fuel, and medical supplies. The IT challenges are real and directly impact warfighter readiness.
If you don’t understand the mission, you won’t write a compelling proposal.
2. Build Relationships Early
Task orders on JETS are competed among the awardees. Winning isn’t just about having the best price — it’s about understanding the specific requirement and demonstrating that you can deliver. Start building relationships with DLA program offices well before task orders are released.
3. Invest in Past Performance
Every task order evaluation will look at your past performance. If you’re a small business without direct DLA experience, consider teaming with a company that has it. Build your portfolio methodically — deliver exceptional results on smaller engagements, earn strong CPARS ratings, and grow from there.
4. Team Strategically
The JETS 2.0 ecosystem rewards effective teaming. Small businesses can punch above their weight by partnering with the right primes and bringing specialized capabilities that complement the larger team’s strengths.
5. Focus on Transition Excellence
Nothing damages a contract relationship faster than a rough transition. Invest in detailed transition planning, have your people identified and ready, and demonstrate from Day 1 that you’re organized and mission-focused.
The Bottom Line
DLA JETS 2.0 is not a vehicle you can win by writing generic proposals. It requires deep domain knowledge, strong customer relationships, proven past performance, and flawless execution. But for small businesses willing to invest in understanding the customer and building the right capabilities, it represents an extraordinary growth opportunity.
DZ GovTech has direct experience across the DLA JETS landscape. If you’re looking for a teaming partner or need guidance on positioning for JETS task orders, get in touch.