The Marine Corps released its annual contract services guidance for FY27, updating the Service Requirements Review Board (SRRB) process. The SRRB is the internal approval process commands must go through before hiring contractors. This message updates that process and sets a new cost benchmark for evaluating whether contractor support is worth it.
Heads up: This is a command-level acquisition policy message. It does not require action from individual reservists, but MARFORRES and subordinate commands are explicitly named and must comply.
Who it affects
This message is directed at commands, comptrollers, and acquisition personnel, not individual Marines. MARFORRES (Commander, Marine Forces Reserve) is specifically listed as a consolidating command, meaning reserve-side commands fall under this guidance. If you work in resource management, contracting, or G8/S-8 functions at any level of the reserve structure, this is relevant to your lane.
Individual SMCR Marines, IMAs, and IRR Marines have nothing to act on here.
What you need to do
For most reservists: Nothing. This is an awareness item at most.
For reserve command staff in resource management or acquisition roles: Review the updated SRRB requirements before obligating funds for contract services in FY27. Key points:
- Any contract services requirement valued at $1 million or more requires SRRB approval before a procurement request goes to a contracting officer.
- The FY27 cost benchmark for a single full-time equivalent (FTE) contractor is set at $197,600. Any proposal for contractor support must show value within that figure.
- Before obligating funds for contract services growth above FY26 levels, commands must coordinate with HQMC Programs and Resources (P&R) to ensure compliance with Office of the Secretary of Defense limits.
- MARFORRES must consolidate SRRB submission results for subordinate commands and designate a contract services point of contact.
Several categories of services are exempt from the SRRB requirement, including contracts under $1 million, construction, R&D, utilities, contingency operations support, and NMCI/Global Installation Contract (GIC) services.
Key dates
- Effective FY27 (beginning 1 October 2026): All guidance applies now.
- No submission deadline is stated in this message. Contact the POCs below for specific timelines.
The official version
Source: MARADMIN 515/26
Referenced policy includes DoD Instruction 5000.74 (contract services acquisition) and Executive Order 14222 (DOGE cost efficiency initiative). Contact POCs for additional guidance:
- LtCol Michael Griner, HQMC:
michael.s.griner@usmc.mil/703-692-5506 - Robert Naftal, HQMC:
robert.naftal@usmc.mil/703-571-6317 - Carlton Hensley, MCSC:
carlton.hensley@usmc.mil/703-432-3899
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.