31--BEARING,SLEEVE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Fri, 06 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring bearing sleeve components, a type of plain bearing used in mechanical systems to reduce friction between rotating shafts and stationary support members. Bearing sleeves—also known as bushings or sleeve bearings—are cylindrical liners typically made from bronze, brass, steel, or self-lubricating materials that allow machinery to operate smoothly with minimal wear. These parts are essential in aircraft maintenance and repair operations, where DLA Aviation serves as the primary supply chain manager for Department of Defense aviation requirements.
As a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, this notice fulfills both the market research and formal solicitation phases in a single posting. Small businesses responding should expect simplified acquisition procedures appropriate to the anticipated contract value.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation — DLA AV Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A027T0391 |
| NAICS | 332991 — Bearing and Bearing Parts Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | November 6, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is reserved exclusively for small businesses under NAICS 332991 (Bearing and Bearing Parts Manufacturing), which carries a Small Business Administration size standard of 1,000 employees. To qualify, your firm must:
- Be registered in SAM.gov with active status
- Have NAICS 332991 in your SAM profile
- Meet the small business size standard (1,000 employees)
- Possess any required CAGE code and past performance history referenced in DLA systems
Manufacturers with machined component capabilities and existing aerospace or defense supply experience hold natural advantages. First-time DLA suppliers should verify their SAM registration includes appropriate Product Service Codes (PSC) for Class 3120 (Bearings, Plain, Unmounted) or related classifications.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand DLA's procurement structure. DLA Aviation awards many bearing and bushing requirements under long-term contracts or against existing blanket purchase agreements. Examine whether this is a one-time buy or part of a larger demand signal.
Review technical requirements carefully. Bearing sleeves for aviation use typically demand material certifications, dimensional tolerances per AS standards, and sometimes National Aerospace Standard (NAS) or military specification (MIL-SPEC) compliance. See the solicitation for exact material, dimension, and performance specifications.
Price competitively on manufacturing efficiency. DLA uses automated price analysis comparing offers to historical paid prices and commercial benchmarks. Document your cost build-up, especially if raw material (bronze alloys, steel) prices have shifted.
Confirm delivery capabilities. DLA Aviation emphasizes supply chain reliability. Be realistic about lead times for raw material procurement and machining operations.
Address quality certifications. Aerospace bearing suppliers typically need AS9100 or ISO 9001 certification. Reference any Nadcap accreditation for special processes (heat treat, non-destructive testing) if applicable.
Submit through DLA's electronic systems. Most DLA Aviation solicitations require submission through ASVAC or designated electronic portals identified in the solicitation documents.
Next steps
Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A027T0391. Review all technical specifications, delivery requirements, and terms and conditions before preparing your offer. The response deadline is November 6, 2026—calendar this date with sufficient buffer for internal approvals and any required certifications.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →