The Defense Manufacturing Readiness Exercise (DMRE) is a phased prototype effort to identify and evaluate manufacturing capabilities for defense production, with a focus on improving industrial-base resilience and domestic capacity. The initial aggregate funding is approximately $15 million, with potential for additional funding up to $100 million, and the goal is to complete the exercise within 9 months from the RFS issuance. The exercise seeks participation from both traditional and nontraditional performers, including manufacturers, design owners, and suppliers, with specific interest in areas like unmanned aircraft systems and wiring harnesses. The process involves a two-stage approach: Stage 1 screening and discovery, followed by Stage 2 prototype development and readiness assessment, with no specific performance location mentioned. Participation does not guarantee award or future work, and the Government retains discretion to manage, modify, or cancel the effort at any time.