PPON MACE Extended Updated Attachments- (Dated 10-15)

Prototype Project Opportunity Notice (PPON)

For

155mm Modular Artillery for Combat Effectiveness (MACE)

Solicitation Number: W15QKN-26-R-1C5R

Issued by:
U.S. Army Contracting Command – Rock Island at Picatinny Picatinny Arsenal, NJ 07806-5000

In Support of:
Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems
Picatinny Arsenal, NJ 07806-5000

PPON Issue Date: August 19, 2026

Original Proposal Due Date: 1500 EDT on September 30, 2026

PPON Amended Issue Date: August 31, 2026

Revised Proposal Due Date: 1500 EDT on October 30, 2026

SECTION 1 – EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1 Background

The U.S.Army is seeking to expand domestic manufacturing capacity for large caliber projectiles in order to meet emerging global security requirements and modernize the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Specifically, the U.S. Army is exploring the manufacture of 155mm cargo-carrying projectiles under the 155mm Modular Artillery for Combat Effectiveness (MACE) program. MACE will support current large caliber artillery systems as well as next-generation Field Artillery Systems through alternative manufacturing processes, thereby expanding the supplier base. The MACE is intended to be a multi-functional projectile body that will interchangeably accept a variety of lethal and non-lethal payloads. The primary objective of this effort is to establish a scalable, resilient manufacturing capability for affordable projectiles. This approach aims to secure a robust supply chain that mitigates critical bottlenecks in processes, equipment, and materials. By expanding this industrial base, the U.S. Army will be able to acquire projectiles in bulk, optimize unit costs, improve Field Artillery efficiency, and ensure reliable production during periods of surge or conflict.

The secondary objective of this effort is to develop a modular range of payload capabilities, scaling from low-cost systems which defeat standard threats up to high-end systems required for sophisticated peer conflict (aligned with the National Security Strategy of the United States of America, November 2025). The flexibility of the new MACE projectile will enhance the U.S. Army’s tactical readiness and defensive posture. MACE cargo munitions are designed to deliver payloads over targeted areas at extended ranges against personnel or armored targets, providing area denial, smoke, illumination, and other advanced capabilities. This versatility directly supports the Army’s modernization priorities for long-range precision fires.

1.2 Acquisition Approach

The purpose of this PPON is to competitively solicit and award up to two (2) prototype Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) under the authority of 10 U.S.C.§4022 for sources capable of prototyping a manufacturing process for 155mm cargo-carrying artillery. The Government intends to maximize industry participation and encourage Nontraditional Defense Contractors (NDCs). The Government will request full technical and pricing proposals.