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16--PLUNGER ASSEMBLY

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Tue, 27 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring a plunger assembly, a component typically used in hydraulic, pneumatic, or fuel system applications within aircraft or ground support equipment. Plunger assemblies are precision-machined mechanical parts that convert fluid pressure into linear motion or regulate flow in various aviation systems. DLA Aviation serves as the primary logistics support provider for military aircraft, managing spare parts and components for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and other federal agencies.

This procurement falls under Federal Supply Classification 16 (Aircraft Components and Accessories), which covers a broad range of parts including hardware, structural components, and system elements for military and civilian aircraft platforms. The specific application of this plunger assembly—whether for engines, landing gear, flight controls, or auxiliary systems—is not specified in the available metadata; see the solicitation for technical requirements, specifications, and intended aircraft platforms or part numbers.

Key facts

NAICS 336413 corresponds to "Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing." This industry classification includes establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing aircraft parts (except engines and propulsion units) and auxiliary equipment, such as flight instrumentation, hydraulic and pneumatic assemblies, and other specialized aircraft components.

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside program indicated, meaning any qualified business—large or small—may submit a bid. However, given the NAICS 336413 designation and DLA Aviation's supply chain priorities, small businesses with relevant manufacturing capabilities are encouraged to compete.

To bid, your firm should have:

• Manufacturer credentials or be an authorized distributor for the specified part
• Experience with aerospace quality standards (typically AS9100, ISO 9001, or equivalent)
• Understanding of military specifications (MIL-SPEC) and defense logistics requirements
• Ability to meet traceability, testing, and certification requirements standard for aviation components
• Proper registration in SAM.gov (active and current)
• Relevant NCMIS/NCAGE codes for defense contracting

Small businesses in this sector should verify their size standard for NAICS 336413 (typically 1,000 employees) to understand their competitive positioning, even though no small business set-aside applies.

How to put together a competitive bid

For precision aircraft components like plunger assemblies, DLA typically evaluates on price, technical compliance, and delivery schedule. Consider these steps:

Review technical requirements carefully: Obtain the full solicitation to examine engineering drawings, material specifications, performance parameters, and any First Article Test (FAT) requirements. DLA Aviation often requires strict adherence to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications.

Assess your manufacturing capability: Confirm you can produce to the required tolerances, surface finishes, and material certifications. Plunger assemblies may require hardened steels, specialized coatings, or particular seal materials—see the solicitation for specifics.

Evaluate your supply chain: Identify sources for raw materials or subcontracted processes (heat treating, plating, non-destructive testing). Long-lead items can affect your delivery commitment and pricing.

Price strategically: Research DLA's historical pricing through tools like FPDS or previous contract awards if available. Factor in packaging, marking, and shipping requirements to DLA depots.

Prepare required documentation: This typically includes technical proposals, certificates of conformance, material certifications, and evidence of quality system registration. See the solicitation for the complete documentation checklist.

Next steps

1. Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727Q0096
2. Review all technical specifications, delivery requirements, and evaluation criteria in the complete procurement package
3. Note the response deadline: October 27, 2026—allow adequate time for proposal preparation, especially if technical drawings or samples are required
4. Contact the contracting officer listed in the solicitation with any questions; DLA typically specifies a Q&A period before the deadline

The place of performance and specific delivery requirements are not shown in the available metadata; see the solicitation for these details and any post-award inspection or acceptance provisions.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →