Open federal opportunities

25--SHOCK ABSORBER,DIRECT

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA LAND.DLA LAND COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Fri, 30 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking to procure a direct shock absorber under classification code 25, which covers vehicular equipment components. This is a DLA Land and Maritime procurement issued through DLA Weapons Support in Columbus, Ohio—part of the Department of Defense's central supply chain for land-based weapon systems and associated ground equipment.

Shock absorbers in this context are likely hydraulic or pneumatic damping devices used on military tactical vehicles, armored platforms, or trailers. These components must meet military specifications for durability, environmental resistance, and performance under extreme conditions. See the solicitation for exact technical requirements, including dimensions, load ratings, and any specific military standards (MIL-STD or MIL-DTL) that apply.

This is a combined synopsis and solicitation, meaning the notice both announces the procurement and serves as the formal request for quotes—streamlining the acquisition process for this requirement.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is set aside exclusively for small businesses under NAICS 332999 (all other fabricated metal product manufacturing). The current small business size standard for this NAICS is 500 employees. Eligible businesses must be registered in SAM.gov and hold active small business certification at time of award.

Given DLA's supply chain role, qualified bidders should have or be able to obtain:

• Experience manufacturing or sourcing industrial shock absorbers or similar fluid power/mechanical components
• Capability to meet military quality assurance requirements (often including ISO 9001 or AS9100, or specific DLA supplier quality standards)
• Capacity to deliver against potentially sporadic but time-critical demand patterns typical of DLA long-term contracts

First-time DLA suppliers should note the agency's Supplier Qualification Programs; see the solicitation for any specific supplier approval requirements.

How to put together a competitive bid

For DLA combined synopsis/solicitations, bids typically follow a quotation format rather than a complex proposal structure. Focus on these elements:

Technical compliance: DLA evaluates on technical acceptability before price. Provide complete specifications, test data, and traceability documentation. For shock absorbers, this may include dynamic load testing, seal compatibility, and salt spray corrosion resistance. Match or exceed any referenced military specifications exactly—partial compliance risks rejection.

Pricing strategy: Review historical pricing on DLA's eTools or past procurement data through FPDS. DLA often awards to lowest technically acceptable offer. Account for volatility in steel, rubber, and hydraulic fluid costs; consider economic price adjustment clauses if permitted.

Past performance: If you have DLA or other defense contract history, highlight on-time delivery and quality metrics. New entrants should emphasize commercial manufacturing experience with comparable specifications.

Small business advantage: Total set-aside eliminates large business competition. Ensure your SAM.gov profile accurately reflects small business status and any socioeconomic certifications (veteran-owned, woman-owned, HUBZone, 8(a)) that may create subcontracting appeal even if not required here.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE7L327U0021. The notice was posted October 15, 2026, with responses due October 30, 2026—a two-week window typical for DLA routine requirements. Confirm place of performance, delivery requirements, and any approved sources or qualification prerequisites in the full document. Submit through SAM.gov's solicitation response function or per instructions in the notice.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →