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53--SPACER,SLEEVE

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Fri, 16 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring spacer sleeves, a hardware item falling under Federal Supply Group 53 (Hardware and Abrasives). Spacer sleeves are cylindrical components used to maintain precise distances between parts in mechanical assemblies, common in aircraft maintenance and overhaul operations. DLA Aviation typically buys these items to replenish depot-level repair capabilities and support military aircraft readiness.

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation, meaning the notice serves as both a preview of the requirement and the formal bidding document. The streamlined format is typical for straightforward procurements where the government has established specifications and expects competitive pricing from qualified vendors.

Key facts

Who can bid

This procurement is 100% set aside for small businesses, meaning only firms meeting SBA size standards for NAICS 332510 may bid. For hardware manufacturing, the size standard is generally 500 employees, though you should verify current thresholds at SBA.gov.

Bidders must be registered in SAM.gov with active status and possess any required DLA qualifications. Given DLA Aviation's focus on aerospace hardware, prospective bidders should anticipate needing quality certifications such as AS9100 or ISO 9001, and potentially meeting DFARS material traceability requirements. If you have not previously supplied DLA Aviation, review their supplier onboarding requirements. The agency may require source inspection or first article approval; see the solicitation for specific qualification demands.

How to put together a competitive bid

Understand the technical requirements. Spacer sleeves for military aviation are governed by rigid specifications—likely a military standard, AN/MS/NAS series part number, or DLA drawing. Obtain the complete specification from the solicitation. Confirm your manufacturing process can achieve required tolerances, surface finishes, and material certifications.

Price strategically. DLA Aviation awards primarily on lowest price, technically acceptable (LPTA) basis for standard hardware. Research DLA's BPA or contract history pricing for comparable items through tools like FPDS or DLA's eTools. Factor in raw material costs, especially if the sleeve requires aerospace-grade aluminum, stainless steel, or specialty alloys.

Address small-business certifications. Mark all applicable self-certifications accurately in SAM and your offer. If you qualify as woman-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, HUBZone, or 8(a), ensure these are current—these can influence subcontracting plans or future set-aside eligibility even under total small-business competitions.

Submit complete paperwork. Combined synopsis/solicitations often require immediate submission of all representations, certifications, and technical/commercial proposals by the deadline. Missing signatures or outdated SAM registration are common disqualifiers.

Plan for post-award compliance. DLA Aviation contracts typically include inspection at destination or source, RFID tagging requirements, and Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF) invoicing. Account for these costs in your pricing.

Next steps

Download and review the complete solicitation package on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T0420. The full document will contain the exact part number, specification, quantity, packaging requirements, and any applicable clauses or provisions. Ensure your SAM registration is active and your NAICS 332510 is reflected in your profile. Note the firm response deadline of October 16, 2026—DLA rarely accepts late submissions.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →