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16--HEATER,AIRCRAFT

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Tue, 13 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring an aircraft heater. This is a supply acquisition for the Department of Defense under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) code 16, which covers aircraft components and accessories. Aircraft heaters are environmental control systems used to provide heated air for cabin warming, equipment de-icing, or other thermal management functions on military aircraft. DLA Aviation serves as the primary logistics support provider for military aviation parts and equipment, managing supply chains across all branches of service. Buyers should see the solicitation for the specific heater model, technical specifications, and quantity requirements.

Key facts

Who can bid

This is an unrestricted solicitation with no small business set-aside, meaning large businesses, small businesses, and other qualified entities may all submit offers. The NAICS code 333414 designates "Heating Equipment (except Warm Air Furnaces) Manufacturing," which establishes the size standard for any small business participation preference. Firms with experience manufacturing industrial or aerospace heating equipment are the natural competitors. The acquisition being a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation indicates the notice itself may function as the solicitation document, potentially allowing immediate submission without a separate full solicitation package. Contractors must be registered in SAM.gov and should verify their CAGE code and any required certifications are current.

How to put together a competitive bid

For aircraft parts and DLA supply contracts, competitiveness typically hinges on price, delivery schedule, and conforming exactly to technical requirements. Because this is an unrestricted buy, expect competition from established defense contractors.

Immediate priorities:

• Obtain the full solicitation on SAM.gov to identify the National Stock Number (NSN) if listed, which defines the item's specification
• Confirm your product meets all military specifications (Mil-Spec) or commercial item descriptions cited; DLA rarely accepts substitutes without explicit approval
• Verify your manufacturing source is approved if Qualification Requirements (QR) or First Article Testing apply—common for critical aircraft components
• Review the Inspection and Acceptance clauses; DLA Aviation maintains strict quality standards, often requiring ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality systems

Pricing strategy: DLA supply contracts frequently use automated tools to evaluate offers. Ensure your pricing is competitive against historical purchases; the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) may show recent awards for similar items. Factor in Packaging, Preservation, and Packing (PP&P) costs, which DLA specifies precisely.

Delivery requirements: Check the solicitation for required delivery timeframe and whether shipments go to a DLA Distribution center or direct to an operational base. DLA Aviation – Richmond supports global military demand; delivery commitments are binding.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation document on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A127T0009. The Combined Synopsis/Solicitation format means offer submission requirements and terms are contained within the notice or in linked documents. Note the firm response deadline of October 13, 2026—eight days from the posted date of October 5, 2026—leaving limited time for preparation. Verify whether submission is through DIBBS, email, or another method specified in the solicitation. Given the compressed timeline, prioritize confirming technical compliance and obtaining any clarity on specifications through the listed contracting officer before preparing your offer.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →