Open federal opportunities

16--DUCT ASSEMBLY,AIR COND

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Fri, 16 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation is procuring a duct assembly for air conditioning applications under Federal Supply Classification 16—Aircraft Components and Accessories. This is a routine parts acquisition by the Defense Logistics Agency, which manages the military's supply chain for aviation components. The item, described as a "DUCT ASSEMBLY,AIR COND," is a component used in environmental control systems aboard aircraft. DLA Aviation at Richmond serves as the contracting activity for this requirement.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is unrestricted, meaning businesses of any size may compete. The NAICS code 333414 designates "Heating Equipment (except Warm Air Furnaces) and Commercial and Industrial Refrigeration Equipment Manufacturing." Companies classified under this code—or those with relevant manufacturing capabilities—should verify their SAM.gov registration and size standard eligibility if they wish to compete as a small business.

Manufacturers and suppliers with experience in aerospace-grade duct assemblies, environmental control systems, or military aviation parts are natural candidates. Because DLA Aviation buys under strict military specifications, bidders typically need experience with defense quality standards and possibly relevant certifications. First-time DLA vendors should be prepared for the agency's vendor qualification requirements; see the solicitation for any specific quality system or source approval mandates.

How to put together a competitive bid

For a DLA Aviation parts buy, competitiveness hinges on technical compliance, precise pricing, and supply reliability rather than creative proposal narratives.

Verify your technical data. DLA solicitations for FSC 16 items usually reference a National Stock Number (NSN), part number, and a military specification or drawing. Confirm you can manufacture or supply to the exact configuration. Any deviation requires prior approval or a formal request; see the solicitation for authorized sources and approved manufacturer lists.

Price strategically. DLA Aviation uses automated tools to evaluate pricing against historical data and competition. Research the NSN in DLA's FedMall or past procurement data to gauge market rates. Factor in your raw material costs, specialized fabrication (aerospace welding, vibration-resistant joints, high-temperature gaskets), and any testing or first-article inspection.

Confirm delivery and sourcing. DLA typically evaluates delivery schedules alongside price. If you rely on a subcontractor for raw duct materials or specialized coating, secure their lead times before bidding. See the solicitation for required delivery timeframe and any option quantities.

Address packaging and marking. Military shipments require specific labeling, preservation, and packaging per MIL-STD-2073 or commercial equivalents. Noncompliance causes rejection. See the solicitation for exact requirements.

Past performance matters. If you have prior DLA Aviation ratings or CPARS records, ensure they reflect favorably. New entrants should highlight comparable commercial or defense aviation work.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A527T0277. The notice was posted October 9, 2026 with a response deadline of October 16, 2026—a short window typical of DLA Aviation's streamlined buys for established items. Review the complete delivery requirements and any inspection clauses before preparing your quote.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →