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16--ROD,PISTON,HYDRAULIC A

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Mon, 09 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation is procuring a hydraulic piston rod—a component used in hydraulic systems that transfer force through fluid pressure to enable mechanical movement. Hydraulic piston rods are critical parts in aircraft landing gear, flight control actuators, cargo systems, and other aerospace applications where reliable linear motion is required under high-stress conditions.

This falls under NAICS 336413: Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing, which covers manufacturers of aircraft parts and subassemblies not elsewhere classified, including hydraulic and pneumatic actuators, components, and related equipment.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no small business set-aside, meaning all responsible sources—large businesses, small businesses, foreign entities with appropriate certifications, and nonprofit organizations—may submit offers.

Small businesses may still compete but should note they are bidding against all qualified sources, including major aerospace and defense contractors. If your business qualifies as small under NAICS 336413 (see SBA size standards for this code), you may want to review whether any subcontracting plans or other small business participation requirements apply, see the solicitation.

Manufacturers with experience in aerospace quality standards (such as AS9100 certification) and prior performance supplying DLA or military customers will have competitive advantages. DLA's "warstopper" and supply chain criticality missions mean reliability and delivery performance are heavily weighted.

How to put together a competitive bid

Verify technical requirements carefully. Hydraulic piston rods for aerospace use have precise material specifications (often high-strength steel or titanium with specific coatings), dimensional tolerances, and fatigue life requirements. See the solicitation for exact technical drawings, material callouts, and applicable military or aerospace specifications.

Confirm your quality certifications. DLA Aviation typically requires AS9100 certification or equivalent quality management systems. Source inspection by DLA or delegated inspection may apply—verify whether this is specified.

Review packaging and marking requirements. DLA has detailed military packaging standards (MIL-STD-2073) that can significantly affect cost if not anticipated.

Evaluate supply chain and lead time risks. Raw material availability for aerospace-grade steels and specialized plating/coating processes can create bottlenecks. Price accordingly and consider whether your facility can meet required delivery schedules.

Assess your DLA history. If you have existing DLA contracts, ensure your past performance data in CPARS reflects positively. New vendors should emphasize relevant commercial or other government experience.

Consider DLA's Electronic Catalog (ECAT) or long-term contract vehicles. This may be an individual purchase or part of a broader requirement—see the solicitation for quantity, delivery schedule, and contract duration to assess whether this represents a strategic entry point for ongoing business.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T2466
2. Download all attachments, including technical specifications, drawings, and terms and conditions
3. Note the response deadline: November 9, 2026
4. Register or update your SAM.gov entity registration if needed to submit offers
5. Submit questions through SAM.gov before any Q&A deadline specified in the solicitation

View the official notice on SAM.gov →