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53--NUT,SELF-LOCKING,EX

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Mon, 09 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring self-locking nuts under Federal Supply Classification code 53 (Hardware and Abrasives). These are fasteners designed with a locking feature that resists loosening under vibration or torque—critical for aviation and aerospace applications where mechanical failure is not an option. Self-locking nuts typically incorporate nylon inserts, deformed threads, or all-metal prevailing-torque designs to maintain clamp load without supplemental locking devices.

This is a DLA Aviation requirement, meaning the parts will likely support military aircraft, rotorcraft, or weapons systems across multiple services. DLA Aviation manages the supply chain for over 5.8 million spare and repair parts for the Department of Defense's aviation enterprise.

Key facts

Who can bid

Only small businesses as defined by NAICS 332722's size standard may bid. That standard is typically 500 employees, though bidders should verify the current standard in the solicitation. Your business must be registered in SAM.gov, small under the relevant size standard, and classified under NAICS 332722 in your SAM profile.

DLA Aviation buyers evaluate suppliers on past performance, quality certifications, and ability to meet delivery schedules. If your firm manufactures fasteners or has experience with aerospace hardware, you are well-positioned. Distributors may also qualify if they meet the solicitation's source approval requirements—see the solicitation for whether manufacturing or distribution is permitted.

How to put together a competitive bid

Certifications matter. Aerospace nuts require stringent quality assurance. Expect requirements for AS9100 certification, NADCAP accreditation for special processes (plating, heat treating), or compliance with military specifications such as MIL-DTL-25027, MS21044, or NASM25027 series. Obtain and review the applicable specification sheets before quoting.

Technical data package review. Self-locking nuts have precise geometry, material, and torque-tension requirements. Request or download the full technical data package referenced in the solicitation to confirm your product matches thread class, tensile strength, temperature rating, and locking torque specifications.

Pricing strategy. DLA Aviation contracts are typically fixed-price with economic price adjustment or firm fixed-price. Account for material volatility (steel, titanium, Inconel), test reporting costs, and packaging to MIL-STD-129 or MIL-STD-2073 requirements. Small business bidders should factor in first article inspection if required.

Past performance documentation. Prepare evidence of comparable deliveries to DLA, other defense agencies, or commercial aerospace OEMs. Include defect rates, on-time delivery percentages, and any existing DLA Qualified Suppliers List for Distributors (QSLD) or Critical Safety Item (CSI) approvals.

Proposal completeness. Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notices often allow offer submission as a simplified quotation. Follow the exact format specified, include all required representations and certifications, and confirm your SAM registration is active through the contract award period.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A627T7903. Verify the exact quantity, delivery schedule, inspection requirements, and any approved sources list. Note the response deadline of November 9, 2026—DLA typically does not accept late submissions. Download applicable drawings and specifications promptly; some technical data may require an account with DLA's Document Services or verification of need-to-know status.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →