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53--BOLT,SPECIAL

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Tue, 10 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Richmond is procuring special bolts, a hardware item used in military aircraft and aviation systems. DLA Aviation serves as the primary supply chain manager for the Department of Defense's aviation requirements, distributing spare parts and consumable items to military services worldwide.

Special bolts in the federal supply classification 53 (Hardware and Abrasives) typically include fasteners engineered to specific military or aerospace standards, often with precise tolerances, specialized materials, or unique head configurations for particular airframe or engine applications. These parts commonly require traceability, material certifications, and compliance with military specifications such as MIL-STD or NAS/MS standards.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation has no set-aside restriction, meaning it is open to all responsible offerors regardless of business size or socio-economic status. However, NAICS 332722 (Bolt, Nut, Screw, Rivet, and Washer Manufacturing) carries a Small Business Administration size standard, which interested small businesses should verify for their own planning.

Eligible bidders should be manufacturers or distributors capable of supplying special bolts meeting DLA Aviation's technical and quality requirements. Firms must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and should have experience with defense procurement processes, including familiarity with Military Standard (MIL-STD) documentation and packaging requirements (MIL-STD-2073).

Companies holding current ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality certifications may have competitive advantages given aviation industry norms. Distributors bidding must identify their manufacturing sources and ensure those sources meet qualification requirements; see the solicitation for any source control or Qualified Products List (QPL) specifications.

How to put together a competitive bid

Understand the technical specifications thoroughly. Special bolts under DLA Aviation typically require exact conformance to specific drawings, material callouts, and plating or coating requirements. Obtain the full technical package through SAM.gov and verify your product's exact match to the specification; deviations generally require explicit approval.

Review DLA's standard terms. DLA Aviation contracts commonly include Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) clauses, specialty metals restrictions (DFARS 252.225-7009), and Buy American Act provisions. Confirm your supply chain's compliance with these flow-down requirements.

Price strategically for the competitive environment. With no set-aside, expect competition from both small and large businesses, including established DLA suppliers. Research historical pricing for similar National Stock Numbers (NSNs) in DLA's procurement data if available. Account for packaging, marking, and preservation costs per MIL-STD-2073.

Ensure quality system readiness. Be prepared for potential First Article Testing or source inspection requirements. Maintain documented inspection and test records.

Verify your SAM registration is active through the response period and that your representations and certifications are current.

Next steps

Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A127T0247. Review the complete technical specifications, delivery requirements, and all incorporated clauses before preparing your offer.

Note the deadline: Responses are due November 10, 2026—eight calendar days from the posted date of November 2, 2026. Allow adequate time for proposal preparation, internal review, and electronic submission through SAM.gov or the designated DLA procurement platform.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →