30--GEAR CLUSTER
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Mon, 26 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation—Richmond is procuring gear cluster components through a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation. DLA Aviation is the primary purchasing arm for the Department of Defense's aviation-related spare parts and supply chain needs. Gear clusters are mechanical assemblies used in aircraft power transmission systems, typically involving multiple interlocking gears mounted on a common shaft or frame to achieve specific speed ratios and torque distribution.
Mechanical power transmission equipment manufacturing (NAICS 333613) covers the production of gears, gearboxes, and related precision-machined components. DLA Aviation procurements in this category typically support military aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations across all service branches.
Key facts
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation—Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A527T1382 |
| NAICS | 333613 – Mechanical Power Transmission Equipment Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | October 26, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata |
Who can bid
This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside designation, meaning any qualified business—large or small—may submit a bid. Small businesses are encouraged to compete, though they will not receive a price evaluation preference absent a set-aside.
To be competitive, vendors should:
- Be registered in SAM.gov with active registration through contract award
- Have or obtain a CAGE code
- Meet any applicable DFARS and FAR requirements for defense contracting
Manufacturers with machining capabilities for precision gears, heat treatment, and aerospace-quality assurance systems are natural candidates. However, see the solicitation for specific source approval, quality certification, or tooling requirements that DLA Aviation may impose.
How to put together a competitive bid
Gear cluster procurements for defense aviation demand exacting standards. Practical steps for bidders:
Technical compliance: DLA Aviation buys to military specifications or industry standards (possibly MIL-SPEC, SAE, or OEM drawings). Obtain the complete technical data package referenced in the solicitation. Verify your manufacturing process can achieve required tolerances, surface finishes, and material specifications.
Quality systems: Expect requirements for AS9100 (aerospace quality management) or equivalent. Past DLA Aviation awards in this NAICS frequently require ISO 9001 at minimum. Confirm your certifications are current and scope-appropriate.
Source approval: Some aviation-critical items require DLA Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) or Qualified Parts List (QPL) status. The solicitation will indicate if pre-approval is required. If you lack it, determine whether the solicitation allows alternate source approval or is restricted to approved sources.
Pricing strategy: With no set-aside, you compete directly against all market participants, including large OEMs and established defense contractors. Analyze historical pricing for comparable NSNs in the DLA procurement data system. Consider whether your cost structure supports competitive pricing at likely quantities.
Past performance: Prepare documentation of relevant gear or power transmission manufacturing for defense or commercial aerospace customers.
Bid assembly: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notices typically require offer submission through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) or SAM.gov. See the solicitation for exact submission method and any required representations.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using the solicitation number SPE4A527T1382 or the title "30--GEAR CLUSTER"
- Download all attachments, including specifications, drawings, and clauses—DLA Aviation procurements are unforgiving of incomplete technical proposals
- Note the deadline: October 26, 2026—verify time zone and whether the system requires submission prior to the stated deadline
- If source approval or QML status is required and you lack it, contact the contracting officer promptly to discuss options; do not assume you can obtain it post-award
View the official notice on SAM.gov →