15--PANEL,STRUCTURAL,AI
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AVIATION PHILADELPHIA.DLA AVIATION AT PHILADELPHIA, PA · Response deadline: Fri, 04 Dec 2026
What the government is buying
DLA Aviation at Philadelphia is soliciting bids for structural aircraft panels, as indicated by the title "15--PANEL,STRUCTURAL,AI." This falls under the broader category of aircraft parts and auxiliary equipment manufacturing. DLA Aviation serves as the primary procurement hub for the Department of Defense's aviation sustainment needs, supplying spare parts and components to keep military aircraft operational.
The classification code 1560 corresponds to "Aircraft Components and Accessories" in the Federal Supply Classification system, which aligns with structural panel procurement. Structural aircraft panels are critical components that form the airframe of military aircraft, requiring precise manufacturing to meet stringent aerospace standards. These items typically must conform to military specifications and airworthiness requirements.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation — Philadelphia, PA |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPRPA127QZA13 |
| NAICS | 336413 |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | December 4, 2026, 4:30 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
The NAICS code 336413 denotes "Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing." This industry classification covers establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing aircraft parts (excluding engines and propulsion units) and auxiliary equipment for guided missiles and space vehicles.
Who can bid
This solicitation is open to all responsible sources—no small-business set-aside applies. Large businesses, small businesses, and non-traditional defense contractors may all compete. Given the NAICS code and product type, potential bidders typically include:
- Established aerospace manufacturers with experience producing structural components
- Machine shops and fabricators certified to aerospace quality standards (AS9100)
- Suppliers with existing relationships to DLA or other defense aviation customers
- Companies capable of meeting military specification requirements and source inspection protocols
Bidders must be registered in SAM.gov and have any required North American Industry Classification System representations current in their profile. Because structural aircraft panels are critical safety items, prospective offerors should expect demands for detailed technical qualifications, quality certifications, and possibly prior production experience with similar components.
How to put together a competitive bid
For full-and-open DLA Aviation hardware solicitations, price competition is typically intense. Consider these factors:
Technical compliance first. Obtain and review the complete technical data package, including applicable military specifications (likely MIL-SPECs for material, processes, and dimensions). Non-compliant bids risk automatic rejection.
Quality certifications. Ensure your facility maintains current AS9100 certification and any process-specific approvals (NADCAP for special processes like heat treatment or bonding, if applicable). DLA frequently requires these for structural components.
Small-business advantages. Even without a set-aside, small businesses can compete aggressively on price and leverage streamlined overhead. Evaluate whether subcontracting portions of work improves competitiveness.
Past performance. Document relevant delivery and quality history with DLA, other DoD customers, or commercial aerospace primes. First-time DLA bidders should emphasize comparable commercial experience.
Source inspection requirements. Anticipate that government quality representatives may need to inspect at your facility before acceptance. Factor this into lead time and pricing.
Next steps
Read the complete solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPRPA127QZA13. The full notice will contain critical details including:
- Exact quantities and delivery schedules
- Technical specifications and drawing requirements
- Packaging and marking requirements
- Inspection and acceptance criteria
- Any applicable contract clauses or special provisions
Note the deadline: All offers must be submitted by December 4, 2026, at 4:30 PM Eastern Time. DLA Aviation typically does not accept late submissions. Allow adequate time for SAM.gov registration updates, solicitation questions, and proposal preparation. Consider submitting questions early if any specification requirements need clarification.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →