Open federal opportunities

16--RELEASE ASSEMBLY,AUTOM

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Mon, 26 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation Richmond is procuring a release assembly, automatic—a component used in aircraft systems. This falls under aircraft manufacturing and parts production, specifically items classified under Federal Supply Classification 16 (Aircraft Components and Accessories). Release assemblies are typically mechanical or electro-mechanical devices that enable controlled separation, deployment, or actuation functions in aviation applications. Common uses include cargo release mechanisms, emergency systems, or structural disconnects where reliable performance under specified loads and conditions is critical.

For DLA Aviation, these procurements support military aircraft readiness and sustainment across Department of Defense platforms. The specific technical requirements, performance specifications, and acceptance criteria for this release assembly are not included in the available metadata—see the solicitation for detailed product descriptions, drawings, and qualification requirements.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside restriction. Any responsible offeror capable of meeting the technical and contractual requirements may bid, including:

• Manufacturers with approved production lines for aircraft release mechanisms
• Small businesses registered in SAM.gov, including those seeking to break into defense aerospace subcontracting or direct federal sales
• Nontraditional defense contractors with relevant commercial aerospace or high-reliability mechanical engineering experience

NAICS 336411 (Aircraft Manufacturing) generally carries a 1,500-employee size standard. Firms of any size may compete, though this is an opportunity where small manufacturers can compete directly against larger suppliers if they hold necessary qualifications. Note that DLA Aviation typically requires Qualified Products List (QPL) or Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) status for many aircraft components, or compliance with MIL-SPEC/SDR requirements. Verify your qualification status against the solicitation's QPL references before pursuing this opportunity.

How to put together a competitive bid

Confirm technical capability early. Request the full technical data package and verify whether your existing designs match or can be adapted to the required specifications. Release assemblies for military aviation demand traceable materials, defined tolerances, and often NADCAP or AS9100 quality systems.

Verify supply chain and lead time realism. Aircraft-grade materials and specialized coatings or treatments may extend procurement cycles. DLA contracts typically prioritize on-time delivery performance; build realistic schedules into your proposed delivery dates.

Review inspection and test requirements. Military aircraft components generally require source inspection, first article approval, or conformance testing. Budget for these activities and identify any government or third-party inspectors required.

Structure pricing strategically. Combined Synopsis/Solicitations often use simplified acquisition procedures. Ensure your price reflects true manufacturing cost plus reasonable profit, but remains competitive against established DLA suppliers who may have recurring production economies.

Prepare required representations and certifications. Include System for Award Management active registration, past performance references, and any required DFARS flow-down clauses for specialty metals or counterfeit parts prevention.

Next steps

Access the full solicitation and any attached drawings or specifications through SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T1495. Review all technical requirements, notes, and provision/clause listings before committing proposal resources. Mark your calendar: responses are due October 26, 2026.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →