40--FIBER ROPE ASSEMBLY SE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Mon, 26 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is seeking to procure fiber rope assemblies for the Department of Defense. This falls under Federal Supply Classification 40 (rope, cable, chain, and fittings), specifically items that are assembled and ready for use rather than raw rope material.
Fiber rope assemblies are critical components across military operations. They typically involve ropes constructed from natural or synthetic fibers (such as nylon, polyester, or aramid) that have been cut to length, fitted with end terminations (thimbles, splices, hooks, or shackles), and tested for specific load requirements. Common applications include mooring lines, towing assemblies, cargo handling, and general rigging needs across Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps operations.
See the solicitation for specific quantities, delivery schedules, technical specifications, and approved fiber types or configurations.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE8EE27T0155 |
| NAICS | 314994 — Rope, Cordage, Twine, Tire Cord, and Tire Fabric Mills |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set-Aside — Total |
| Response deadline | October 26, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata (see the solicitation) |
Who can bid
This opportunity is set aside exclusively for small businesses certified under NAICS 314994. To qualify, your business must meet the Small Business Administration's size standard for this code, which is typically 1,000 employees (verify current thresholds at SBA.gov/size-standards).
You must also be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) with active status, and your entity should be positioned to provide manufactured rope products that meet DLA's quality and traceability requirements. Military rope assemblies often require compliance with specific federal or military standards (MIL-STD, MIL-DTL, or A-A standards), so prior defense contracting experience with manufactured textile products is advantageous though not always required.
If you are a non-manufacturer, note that the SBA's non-manufacturer rule may apply—you would need to supply product from a small business domestic manufacturer or qualify under an exception. See the solicitation for any waivers or specific source requirements.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand DLA's procurement patterns. DLA Troop Support frequently buys on a fixed-price basis for standardized items. Review the solicitation for whether this is for stock replenishment (to be held in DLA inventory) or direct delivery to a specific unit or location.
Verify manufacturing and testing capabilities. Fiber rope assemblies for military use typically require proof testing, certification tags, and lot traceability. Ensure your quality system can produce documentation such as material certifications, break-test reports, and conformance to applicable specifications. If you outsource splicing or termination work, vet those subcontractors for similar capabilities.
Price competitively but sustainably. DLA awards to low-price, technically acceptable offers for many FSC 40 items. Research historical pricing for comparable NSNs through DLA's FedMall or procurement history tools. Factor in fiber commodity costs, which fluctuate with petroleum-based synthetic feedstocks and global supply chains.
Demonstrate past performance. If you have delivered to DLA, defense primes, or commercial marine/aerospace customers with similar requirements, highlight this. First-time DLA vendors should emphasize ISO 9001 certification, AS9100 (if applicable), or comparable quality credentials.
Review packaging and marking requirements. Military shipments have strict MIL-STD-129 or MIL-STD-2073 requirements. Noncompliant packaging is a common reason for rejection or payment withholding.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation at SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE8EE27T0155
- Note the deadline: Responses are due October 26, 2026—allow time for SAM registration updates, teaming discussions, or subcontractor arrangements
- Download all attachments, including specifications, drawings, and clauses (particularly DFARS provisions for defense procurements)
- Submit your offer through SAM.gov or the designated electronic system specified in the solicitation
View the official notice on SAM.gov →