The National Advanced Mobility Consortium, Inc. (NAMC) was competitively awarded the Detroit Arsenal Innovation (DAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) in September 2023. This innovative agreement provides the U.S. Government with a streamlined mechanism to support the competitive contracting process for all emerging ground mobility modernization prototyping and developmental needs.
What is the DAI OTA?
The DAI OTA is a flexible contracting mechanism that enables the rapid development, prototyping and delivery of cutting-edge technologies that enhance the capabilities of our armed forces.
In an interview with Michigan Business Network, Alissa Roath, Chief Executive Officer of NAMC, discussed the significance of the DAI OTA:
"NAMC is proud to enhance our Warfighter's capabilities through the DAI OTA. Since we act as a bridge between our Members and the DoD, this award allows us to further critical innovation for our Military. We're thrilled to continue bringing opportunities to consortium members, especially with the DAI OTA's expanded capabilities."
The DAI OTA follows NAMC's previous contract, the Ground Vehicle System (GVS) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA), which expired in September 2023. This new award provides NAMC members with access to competitive opportunities in 15 technology areas, including:
The DAI OTA Team
National Advanced Mobility Consortium, Inc. (NAMC)
The National Advanced Mobility Consortium, Inc. (NAMC) is a 501c3 nationwide alliance of traditional and non-traditional defense contractors, academic institutions, non-profits, and research organizations dedicated to advancing ground vehicle technologies through Research & Development (R&D) efforts.
Ground Vehicles Systems Center (GVSC)
The US Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) plays a critical role in the DAI OTA's success, leveraging its expertise to oversee and support the agreement's administration. As a core partner stationed at the Detroit Arsenal, GVSC works closely with NAMC and the Department of Defense to drive modernization initiatives and ensure the OTA aligns with strategic objectives for ground vehicle technology.
DoD Science & Technology (S&T) and Acquisition Partners
The DAI OTA is further bolstered by partnerships with the broader DoD community including various Program Executive Offices (PEOs) such as PEO Ground Combat Systems (PEO GCS) and PEO Combat Support & Combat Service Support (PEO CS&CSS). These partnerships align with NAMC’s mission, delivering innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the Warfighter.
Army Contracting Command - Detroit Arsenal (ACC-DTA)
Headquartered at the Detroit Arsenal in Michigan, the Army Contracting Command - Detroit Arsenal (ACC-DTA) operates within the TACOM Life Cycle Management Command (LCMC). ACC-DTA provides acquisition support and contracting services for a wide range of Army major weapon systems, as well as systems and equipment for other services, depot-level maintenance services, and foreign military sales customers. Their primary focus is on ensuring soldier readiness by procuring ground combat and tactical vehicles, armaments, small arms, chemical/biological systems, targetry, petroleum/water systems, construction equipment, combat engineering services, supporting services, and selected components.
DAI OTA Benefits
Benefits for Government
The DAI OTA offers significant advantages for government stakeholders, enabling streamlined processes and enhanced outcomes for ground vehicle modernization efforts. Key benefits include:
Rapid Innovation and Deployment
The DAI OTA accelerates the development, prototyping, and delivery of advanced technologies, ensuring our Warfighters have access to cutting-edge capabilities in a timely manner.
Collaboration with a Broad Ecosystem
By engaging NAMC’s diverse membership of traditional and non-traditional defense contractors, academic institutions, and research organizations, the DAI OTA fosters innovation and expands the pool of potential solutions to address military challenges.
Flexibility in Contracting
The OTA framework allows for more flexible terms compared to traditional contracting, reducing administrative burdens and fostering a more agile approach to research and development.
Alignment with Strategic Objectives
The DAI OTA aligns with the priorities of Program Executive Offices (PEOs) and the broader Department of Defense Science & Technology (S&T) community, ensuring projects are strategically focused and mission-critical.
Cost Efficiency
By leveraging competitive opportunities and innovative partnerships, the DAI OTA maximizes value for taxpayers while delivering superior technological advancements for ground vehicle systems.
Together, these benefits drive innovation, expand capabilities, and create a more dynamic and competitive defense industry ecosystem.
Benefits for Industry & Members
The DAI OTA creates unique opportunities for both the defense industry and NAMC members, fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth in the ground vehicle technology sector. Key benefits include:
Access to Government-Funded Projects
Companies and organizations gain direct access to research and development projects funded by the Department of Defense, enabling them to contribute to critical modernization efforts.
Collaborative Opportunities
The OTA facilitates partnerships between leading industry players, academic institutions, and non-traditional defense contractors, fostering innovation and knowledge sharing.
Flexible Contracting Terms
NAMC’s OTA framework provides more business-friendly terms and conditions, reducing the stringent processes typically associated with government contracts.
Exposure to Advanced Technologies
Participants engage with cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions, positioning themselves at the forefront of ground vehicle modernization.
Pathway to Follow-On Production Contracts
The prototyping work conducted under the DAI OTA often leads to follow-on production contracts, offering commercialization opportunities for successful projects.
Support for Member Organizations
NAMC provides robust resources to its members, including guidance, solicitation documents, and strategic insights to help them navigate the OTA process and maximize opportunities.
Strengthened Industry Presence
Companies gain visibility and recognition within the defense community, enhancing their reputation and expanding their networks in this critical sector.
"NAMC's strength lies within our Member organizations, and it is because of you that the defense industry continues to grow and meet the needs of the Government. The DAI OTA will provide Members and their teams with additional opportunities within the expanded technology areas listed above." Alissa Roath
NAMC provides its Members with resources through various channels. The DAI OTA BIDS website serves as a hub for project submissions. The NAMC Member website hosts solicitation documents, a membership directory, templates, guidance memorandums, Q&A documents, and government strategy insights. Members can also access Annual Plan schedules and connect with staff for specific queries.
Quick Cards, available on NAMC Member Resources, offer additional information, tips, and instructions on different phases of the Annual Plan cycle. While not exhaustive, Quick Cards is a handy reference tool for members.
For more specific details related to the Annual Plan, refer to the Annual Plan Bids webpage.
Get Involved
If you are an NAMC member interested in participating in the DAI OTA, please contact our team at Click here to show email address for more information on upcoming project solicitations and how to get involved. Together, we can drive innovation and deliver the next generation of systems for our warfighters.
Not a member yet? Join NAMC today to access the benefits of the DAI OTA and other exciting opportunities.