53--SPACER,SLEEVE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Tue, 20 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring spacer and sleeve components classified under Federal Supply Classification code 53 (Hardware and Abrasives). These are mechanical hardware items typically used in aircraft assemblies and maintenance operations to maintain precise distances between parts, reduce wear, or provide structural support.
Spacers and sleeves in this category are common consumable repair parts distributed through DLA's supply chain to support military aircraft platforms. DLA Aviation Richmond serves as the lead center for procurement and distribution of aviation-specific hardware to military services and defense agencies. The agency manages thousands of such items as part of its mission to provide worldwide logistics support.
Key characteristics of FSC 53 hardware typically include adherence to military standards (MIL-STD) and aerospace material specifications, with requirements for traceability, material certifications, and conformance to dimensional tolerances critical for flight safety. see the solicitation
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A727T0914 |
| NAICS | 332999 — All Other Miscellaneous Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside — Total |
| Response deadline | October 20, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata (see the solicitation) |
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small business concerns under the Small Business Set-Aside — Total program. To qualify, a business must:
- Meet the size standard for NAICS 332999, currently 500 employees
- Be certified as small in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov)
- Be registered and active in SAM.gov with current representations and certifications
The NAICS code 332999 covers manufacturers of fabricated metal products not elsewhere classified, including precision-machined components like spacers and sleeves. Businesses engaged in turning, milling, or grinding operations for aerospace hardware are typical participants in this market.
Eligible bidders should verify their North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code assignments in SAM.gov match 332999, and confirm their annual receipts or employee count falls below the threshold. Joint ventures and teaming arrangements are permitted under small business set-aside rules provided the combined entity meets size requirements.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand DLA's buying patterns. DLA Aviation frequently awards multi-year or indefinite-delivery contracts for hardware items with recurring demand. Review historical procurement data on SAM.gov or DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) to assess order frequency, quantities, and prior pricing where available.
Focus on manufacturing certifications. Aerospace hardware typically requires quality management systems aligned to AS9100 or equivalent, and processes meeting NADCAP standards for special processes like heat treatment or non-destructive testing. Ensure your facility's certifications are current and scope-appropriate.
Prepare technical documentation. DLA solicitations for FSC 53 items typically require: material certifications, chemical and physical test reports, dimensional inspection data, and certificates of conformance to applicable military or industry specifications. Maintain organized lot traceability records.
Evaluate your supply chain. Source raw materials from distributors approved under Qualified Producer List (QPL) or Qualified Suppliers List for Manufacturers (QSLM) programs where required. Lead times for aerospace-grade materials can extend delivery schedules.
Price strategically. DLA uses automated best value algorithms and may award to multiple suppliers. Factor in DLA's standardized shipping and packaging requirements (MIL-STD-2073), which add compliance costs. Consider whether Economic Price Adjustment clauses apply given extended procurement periods.
Register in supporting systems. Ensure access to DIBBS for electronic bidding and Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF) for invoicing if awarded.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T0914. The Combined Synopsis/Solicitation contains complete specifications, delivery requirements, evaluation criteria, and clause applicability not reflected in metadata.
Critical deadline: Responses are due October 20, 2026. Verify whether this is a receipt deadline (proposal must arrive) or submission cutoff (electronic timestamp), and confirm any time zone requirements in the solicitation text. Late submissions are typically not accepted under DLA procedures.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →