28--SEAL,METALLIC,AIRCRAFT
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Sat, 17 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
This is a procurement for a metallic aircraft seal—an essential component used in aircraft fluid systems to prevent leakage around static and dynamic interfaces. These seals are critical safety items in military aviation applications, where they must perform under extreme pressure differentials, temperature variations, vibration, and chemical exposure. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Richmond is sourcing this part as part of its mission to supply spare and replacement parts to U.S. military services and allied foreign military customers.
DLA Aviation is the primary material manager for the Department of Defense's aerospace sustainment needs. Contracts of this nature typically involve manufacturing to strict military or aerospace specifications, with requirements for traceability, quality documentation, and often source inspection by DLA or designated government representatives.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation, Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A727Q0052 |
| NAICS | 336412 |
| Set-aside | None |
| Response deadline | October 17, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata |
Who can bid
This solicitation is unrestricted—no set-aside applies, meaning any qualified business may compete, including large businesses, small businesses, and non-traditional defense contractors. NAICS code 336412 corresponds to "Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing," though this specific item is a seal rather than an engine component. Companies with applicable manufacturing capabilities should verify their SAM.gov registration status and that their NAICS codes in their entity profile include 336412 or related codes.
Bidders must hold or be capable of obtaining any required quality certifications. For aerospace seals, this typically includes AS9100 quality management certification and possibly Nadcap accreditation for specific processes. See the solicitation for exact certification requirements. Firms must also be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) with active registration through the contract performance period.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Review the solicitation's specification sheet, drawing, and any referenced military or industry standards (potentially including SAE AMS specifications or MIL-PRF standards). Aircraft metallic seals may use specialized alloys, plating, or surface treatments—verify your production capabilities against exact material and dimensional requirements.
Assess quality and inspection requirements. DLA Aviation contracts frequently require detailed quality documentation, including certificates of conformance, material certifications, and lot traceability. Factor the cost of inspection, testing, and documentation into your pricing. See the solicitation for whether first article testing or source inspection is mandated.
Evaluate delivery schedule. The solicitation may specify required delivery dates or an estimated annual quantity. See the solicitation for exact delivery requirements and determine whether you can meet lead times from raw material procurement through finished goods.
Price competitively. As an unrestricted procurement, expect competition from established aerospace parts suppliers. Research historical pricing for similar National Stock Number items through DLA's Customer Interaction Center or subscription services if available. Consider whether offering alternate part numbers or proposing a Long Term Contract arrangement would be advantageous.
Review packaging and marking requirements. Defense shipments require specific military packaging standards (MIL-STD-2073-1) and barcoding per MIL-STD-129.
Next steps
- Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727Q0052
- Download all attachments, including specifications, drawings, and clauses
- Note the response deadline of October 17, 2026—given the one-day window from posting to deadline, immediate action is required; contact the contracting officer promptly if this appears to be an error or if additional time may be available
- Submit questions through SAM.gov before any Q&A deadline specified in the solicitation
- Prepare and submit your offer through the specified method in the solicitation
View the official notice on SAM.gov →