Open federal opportunities

53--PLUG,PROTECTIVE,DUST A

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA LAND.DLA LAND COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Thu, 29 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking to procure a "PLUG,PROTECTIVE,DUST A"—a hardware item classified under Federal Supply Class 53 (Hardware and Abrasives). This is a combined synopsis/solicitation, meaning the notice serves as both the announcement of the requirement and the formal invitation for bids.

The item falls within NAICS 332510, which covers "Hardware Manufacturing." This classification includes establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing metal hardware such as hinges, handles, brackets, and similar protective or functional components. A dust protective plug is typically used to seal openings and prevent contamination of equipment, munitions casings, or weapon systems during storage, transport, or maintenance operations. These items are standard in military logistics to maintain readiness and extend equipment service life.

DLA Weapons Support, operating through DLA Land Columbus, manages this acquisition. The agency serves as the primary supply chain manager for the Department of Defense, providing worldwide logistics support for weapons systems and related hardware.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is set aside exclusively for small businesses under the Small Business Set Aside - Total program. To compete, your business must:

• Meet the size standard for NAICS 332510 (see the solicitation or SBA size standards for current thresholds)
• Be registered and active in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov)
• Have any required certifications current at time of award

No large business primes or subcontracting arrangements that circumvent the set-aside are permitted. If you qualify as a small business in hardware manufacturing or have relevant manufacturing capabilities, you are eligible to submit an offer.

How to put together a competitive bid

For DLA hardware acquisitions, bids typically follow a straightforward sealed-bid process with evaluation based on price and price-related factors. To strengthen your submission:

Verify technical compliance. Review the solicitation's item description, drawings, and specifications carefully. Dust protective plugs for military use may require specific materials, dimensions, thread patterns, or finishes. Minor deviations can result in rejection.

Confirm your manufacturing capacity. DLA often requires delivery on short schedules. Ensure you can meet any stated or standard lead times without risk of default.

Understand packaging and marking requirements. Military hardware frequently mandates specific packaging standards (such as MIL-STD-2073 or commercial equivalents) and DLA labeling for traceability.

Price competitively but sustainably. DLA awards typically go to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder. Research historical pricing for similar items through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) or SAM.gov contract data, but bid only what your cost structure supports.

Submit through the designated electronic system. Most DLA acquisitions use DIBBS for quotation submission. Verify the solicitation's submission method and format requirements.

Next steps

1. Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE7L127T1685 to obtain complete item specifications, quantity, delivery requirements, and terms.

2. Review all technical drawings, packaging requirements, and clauses incorporated by reference.

3. Submit your bid before the October 29, 2026 deadline. Late submissions are generally not accepted under sealed-bid procedures.

4. Monitor SAM.gov and DIBBS for any amendments or Q&A postings that may affect your proposal.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →