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53--SEGMENT,RING SPACER

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

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation is seeking suppliers for metal ring spacers, a type of hardware component used in aviation and defense applications. Ring spacers are typically used to maintain precise distances between components in mechanical assemblies, ensuring proper alignment, load distribution, and spacing in engines, airframes, and related systems.

This procurement falls under FSC 53—Hardware and Abrasives, a broad category that includes various metal fasteners, fittings, and small mechanical components essential to military equipment maintenance and repair. DLA Aviation serves as the primary supply chain manager for Department of Defense aviation requirements, supporting multiple military services and defense agencies worldwide.

Key facts

Who can bid

This is an unrestricted solicitation with no small business set-aside. All manufacturers capable of producing metal spacers to DLA's quality and delivery requirements may compete, including:

• Large manufacturers with established defense contracts
• Small businesses registered in SAM.gov with active CAGE codes
• Veteran-owned, woman-owned, HUBZone, and 8(a) firms (may self-certifywhere applicable, though no preference applies here)

Bidders should have experience with aerospace-grade hardware manufacturing, familiarity with MIL-SPEC or aerospace standards, and the ability to meet DLA's rigorous quality assurance requirements. Prior DLA or defense supply chain experience is advantageous but not required.

To be eligible, your firm must be registered in SAM.gov with current representations and certifications. Your NAICS code registration should include 332119 or a closely related manufacturing code.

How to put together a competitive bid

For metal stamping and aerospace hardware competitions, focus on these elements:

Technical compliance: Review the full solicitation for exact dimensional tolerances, material specifications (likely stainless steel, Inconel, or titanium alloys for aviation use), and any applicable military or aerospace standards (such as AS, MS, or NAS specifications). DLA typically requires first article inspection (FAI) for new suppliers or renewed contracts—factor this cost and timeline into your bid.

Quality systems: Ensure your facility holds AS9100 certification (aerospace quality management) or is prepared to demonstrate equivalent quality controls. DLA Aviation frequently requires ISO 9001 as a baseline, with AS9100 preferred for flight-critical hardware.

Traceability and documentation: Aviation hardware demands full material traceability, lot control, and certificate of conformance documentation. Your bid should demonstrate robust record-keeping systems.

Pricing strategy: Research DAPA (Department of Defense Activity Address Code) pricing and historical awards for similar NSNs if available. DLA uses automated procurement tools; aggressive but sustainable pricing often wins in unrestricted competitions. Consider Long Term Contract (LTC) implications if the solicitation includes multi-year requirements.

Past performance: Prepare documentation of similar aerospace or defense manufacturing work. Even without set-aside preferences, strong past performance ratings in CPARS carry weight.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T2515 for complete specifications, delivery requirements, and clause provisions
2. Verify your SAM.gov registration is active through the response period
3. Review any attached drawings or technical documents referenced in the solicitation
4. Submit your offer no later than November 9, 2026

See the solicitation for complete packaging and submission requirements, evaluation criteria, and all technical specifications.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →