XL EagleDoD (Department of Defense)
DoD stands for Department of Defense. The Department of Defense (DoD) runs the U.S. military: the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force, plus dozens of support agencies. It spends more on contracts than any other federal department. Since a September 2025 executive order, it also uses the secondary name Department of War, so you may see both names on paperwork.
DoD does not buy from one central office. Each base, command, and agency has its own contracting offices that post work on SAM.gov or, for some buys, through other systems like DIBBS or PIEE. DoD contracts follow the FAR plus its own supplement, the DFARS.
Why it matters to a small contractor
Military bases are small cities. They need mowing, janitorial, HVAC repair, pest control, fencing, hauling, and parts every day, and much of that work is set aside for small businesses. Learning which base near you buys what is one of the fastest ways into government work. If you would rather not register yourself, a prime contractor such as XL Eagle can bid for you.
Example
A two-truck landscaping company searches SAM.gov for grounds maintenance near an Army post 40 miles away and finds a small business set-aside for mowing the housing area and ball fields.
DoD: common questions
Is the Department of Defense now called the Department of War?
A September 2025 executive order allowed the department to use Department of War as a secondary name. A full legal rename needs Congress, so you will see both names in documents and websites. For contracting, the rules and systems are the same.
How do I find DoD contracts?
Most DoD opportunities over the micro-purchase level are posted on SAM.gov. Spare parts for the Defense Logistics Agency are posted on DIBBS. Filter by your NAICS code and the state where your crews work.
Do I need a security clearance to work for DoD?
Usually not. Most facilities work like mowing, cleaning, and repairs needs only base access, which means a background check and an ID or escort. Classified work is a separate, smaller slice of contracts.
Want the contract without the paperwork? Send XL Eagle your price on an open government job. We write and submit the bid under our registrations, free to you. Find open jobs →