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53--GROMMET,SPECIAL

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Mon, 19 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation at Richmond is procuring a specialized hardware item classified under Federal Supply Classification 53 (Hardware and Abrasives). Specifically, this is a "grommet, special"—a ring or edge strip inserted into a hole in thin material to reinforce, protect, or insulate a cable, wire, or passing object. Special grommets for defense aviation applications typically must meet stringent material, dimensional, and performance specifications given their use in aircraft systems where vibration, temperature extremes, and chemical exposure are routine operational conditions.

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation, meaning the notice serves both as an advance announcement and as the formal solicitation document, streamlining the procurement timeline. As a parts procurement for DLA Aviation—the primary supply chain manager for military aircraft components—this contract supports the Department of Defense's worldwide logistics needs.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is set aside exclusively for small businesses under NAICS 332510 (Hardware Manufacturing). To qualify, your business must:

• Be certified as small under the SBA size standard for NAICS 332510 (1,000 employees for this industry)
• Be registered in SAM.gov with active status
• Have the required DUNS/UEI and current representations and certifications

No specific socioeconomic set-aside (such as 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, or WOSB) applies here—any eligible small business may compete. You do not need to hold an existing DLA contract or be on a multiple-award schedule; this is a competitive solicitation open to qualified offerors.

How to put together a competitive bid

Given DLA Aviation's role as a high-volume, highly standardized purchaser, your bid should emphasize:

Technical compliance first. DLA hardware solicitations typically incorporate military or aerospace specifications (MIL-SPEC, SAE, or proprietary technical drawings). Obtain the full solicitation to identify the exact specification sheet, part number, and any first-article testing requirements. Non-compliant technical proposals are frequently rejected without cost discussion.

Pricing discipline. DLA uses market research and historical pricing data extensively. Research comparable sales through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) or FedBid history for this NSN or similar grommets. Account for material costs, especially if the specification requires specialized elastomers, fluorocarbons, or metal alloys subject to commodity volatility.

Quality systems. DLA Aviation suppliers typically need appropriate quality registrations (see the solicitation for specific requirements—common expectations include ISO 9001 or AS9100 for aviation hardware). Verify whether source inspection, certificate of conformance, or material test reports are required.

Lead time and delivery reliability. DLA evaluates past performance; propose realistic delivery schedules you can meet. Unrealistic promises that result in delinquencies damage future competitiveness.

Small business advantage. Since this is a total small business set-aside, you face only small business competition, but DLA's vendor base in hardware manufacturing is established—differentiate through responsiveness, technical competence, and competitive pricing.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation for SPE4A627U0009 on SAM.gov to obtain technical specifications, quantity requirements, delivery schedule, and exact evaluation criteria. Note the firm response deadline of October 19, 2026—combined synopsis/solicitations often move quickly, and late submissions are not accepted. Download all attachments, register in DIBBS if required for submission, and prepare your quote according to the precise format specified in the solicitation documents.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →