Open federal opportunities

16--DAMPER TUBE ASSEMBLY

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Thu, 22 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring a damper tube assembly, a component used in aircraft systems. DLA Aviation manages the supply chain for spare parts and sustainment for U.S. military aircraft, supporting readiness across the armed services. A damper tube assembly is typically part of a helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft's damping system—often associated with landing gear, rotor systems, or flight control mechanisms—to absorb vibration and shock loads.

This procurement falls under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 16, which covers aircraft components and accessories. The specific item details, including drawings, technical specifications, required quantities, and delivery schedules, see the solicitation on SAM.gov.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is 100% set aside for small businesses under the Small Business Administration's size standards. NAICS 336411 applies to Aircraft Manufacturing establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing complete aircraft, developing and making aircraft prototypes, or converting aircraft. For this procurement, the relevant size standard is typically 1,500 employees (verify current thresholds at SBA.gov).

Eligible bidders must:

• Be a certified small business for NAICS 336411 by the response deadline
• Have or obtain a CAGE code and active registration in SAM.gov
• Meet any source approval requirements common to DLA Aviation critical safety items—quality systems, traceability, and sometimes specific manufacturing approvals may apply
• Demonstrate capability to produce aerospace parts to military specifications or industry standards (e.g., AS9100, MIL-STD, or OEM technical data)

Non-small businesses and joint ventures that do not meet small business criteria are ineligible for award.

How to put together a competitive bid

DLA Aviation procurements for aircraft parts often favor bidders who understand defense logistics workflows:

Technical compliance: Obtain the full solicitation package promptly. DLA Aviation frequently cites military specifications, engineering drawings, and technical orders. Request any referenced technical data packages through the solicitation's designated channel if not directly downloadable.

Past performance: Highlight deliveries to DLA, other military customers, or commercial aerospace OEMs. Document on-time delivery rates and quality acceptance metrics. DLA Aviation uses past performance as a significant evaluation factor.

Pricing strategy: Review historical pricing for comparable National Stock Number (NSN) items if available through DLA tools or FPDS. Small business set-aside competitions can still be aggressive; ensure your pricing accounts for certification costs, lot testing, and any special packaging or preservation requirements.

Quality systems: Confirm your AS9100 registration status. If the item is a critical safety item or flight safety critical aircraft part, be prepared to present your quality plan, supplier control processes, and non-conformance history.

Small business certifications: If you hold 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, or WOSB certifications, note them—even under a general small business set-aside, these may strengthen your position in evaluation or future teaming.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation at SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727Q0033
2. Download all attachments, specifications, and amendment notices
3. Confirm your SAM registration and small business status are current and accurate
4. Submit your offer no later than October 22, 2026

Monitor the SAM.gov notice for amendments, Q&A postings, or pre-solicitation conferences that may affect your bid strategy.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →