(a) Down-selection. In a phased acquisition, the process of selecting contractors for later phases from among the preceding phase contractors.

(b) Phased Acquisition. An incremental acquisition implementation comprised of several distinct phases where the realization of program/project objectives requires a planned, sequential acquisition of each phase. The phases may be acquired separately, in combination, or through a down-selection strategy.

(c) Progressive Competition. A type of down-selection strategy for a phased acquisition. In this method, a single solicitation is issued for all phases of the program. The initial phase contracts are awarded, and the contractors for subsequent phases are expected to be chosen through a down-selection from among the preceding phase contractors. In each phase, progressively fewer contracts are awarded until a single contractor is chosen for the final phase. Normally, all down-selections are accomplished without issuance of a new, formal solicitation.

(a) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 1852.217–71, Phased Acquisition Using Down-Selection Procedures, in solicitations and contracts for phased acquisitions using down-selection procedures other than the progressive competition technique. The clause may be modified as appropriate if the acquisition has more than two phases. The clause shall be included in the solicitation for each phase and in all contracts except that for the final phase.

(b) The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 1852.217–72, Phased Acquisition Using Progressive Competition Down-Selection Procedures, in solicitations and contracts for phased acquisitions using the progressive competition technique. The clause may be modified as appropriate if the acquisition has more than two phases. The clause shall be included in the initial phase solicitation and all contracts except that for the final phase.