16--VALVE,FILL,AIRCRAFT
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA MARITIME.DLA MARITIME COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Thu, 29 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is procuring a valve, fill, aircraft component—specific equipment used in military aviation systems. This falls under DLA Weapons Support, the component that manages supply chains for weapons systems and related parts across the Department of Defense.
The classification code 16 covers aircraft components and accessories. Items in this categorytypically include hydraulic, pneumatic, and fuel system components essential to aircraft operation and maintenance. A fill valve for aircraft would control fluid intake into tanks or reservoirs, with exact specifications varying by aircraft platform.
DLA Maritime Columbus handles this procurement, reflecting the agency's role in managing spare parts and repair items for military platforms. As a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, this notice serves both to announce the planned purchase and to solicit bids simultaneously—meaning responsive offers can result in direct awards without a separate solicitation phase.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) – Weapons Support / Maritime Columbus |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE7M427T1375 |
| NAICS | 336413 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside – Total |
| Response deadline | October 29, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
NAICS 336413 designates "Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing." This industry classification covers establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing aircraft parts (excluding engines and propulsion units) and auxiliary equipment. Firms in this category typically produce hydraulic and pneumatic assemblies, control systems, and specialized valves for aviation applications.
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small businesses under the Total Small Business Set-Aside program. To qualify, your firm must:
- Meet SBA size standards for NAICS 336413 (currently 1,000 employees for this classification)
- Be registered and active in SAM.gov
- Have any required certifications current at time of award
- Demonstrate capacity to manufacture or supply aircraft parts meeting military specifications
Manufacturers with AS9100 quality management certification or prior experience with DLA aviation supply contracts hold advantages, though these are not necessarily mandatory—see the solicitation for specific qualification requirements.
How to put together a competitive bid
Verify technical requirements. Aircraft valves for Defense applications typically require compliance with military specifications (MIL-SPEC) or aerospace standards. Review the solicitation for drawing numbers, material specifications, performance ratings, and approved sources. DLA often requires first article approval or source inspection for critical flight safety items.
Assess your supply chain. Raw material lead times for aerospace-grade alloys and specialized seals frequently extend months. Confirm availability before committing to delivery schedules. The solicitation will state required delivery times; missing them can result in rejection or default.
Price strategically. DLA Weapons Support contracts often use historical pricing data for evaluation. Research past awards for similar NSNs through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) or FOIA requests. Factor in Special Tooling costs if the design requires unique fixturing.
Understand packaging and marking. Military shipments demand specific labeling, preservation, and shipment documentation per MIL-STD-129 and MIL-STD-2073. Noncompliant deliveries trigger rejections.
Prepare for post-award requirements. Small business set-asides include subcontracting limitations—generally, the prime must perform the primary work. Ensure you can self-perform or document allowable subcontracting arrangements.
Next steps
Access the complete solicitation SPE7M427T1375 on SAM.gov immediately. Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notices embed full technical requirements, inspection criteria, and award terms within the notice body or attached documents.
Critical deadline: October 29, 2026. DLA typically does not extend deadlines for simplified acquisition procedures. Submit through the designated system—likely DIBBS given DLA's standard practices, though confirm in the notice.
Given the 11-day window between posting and deadline, expedite your technical review and pricing analysis. Contact DLA Maritime Columbus contracting staff promptly for any solicitation clarifications, allowing adequate time for documented responses before submission.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →