53--SPACER,SLEEVE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Fri, 30 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
DLA Aviation is procuring spacer sleeves, a hardware item falling under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 53—Hardware and Abrasives. Spacer sleeves are cylindrical components used to maintain precise distances or alignments between parts in mechanical assemblies. In aviation applications, these items typically support proper positioning of bearings, gears, or structural elements on shafts or mounting points.
This is a stock-item procurement through Defense Logistics Agency's organic industrial base support channel. DLA Aviation manages the military's consolidated supply chain for aerospace items, meaning this contract likely supports ongoing depot maintenance, overhaul, or spare parts replenishment for military aircraft and equipment.
Per the notice type, this is a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, indicating the government is streamlining the process by announcing and soliciting simultaneously under simplified acquisition procedures.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation — Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A727T1817 |
| NAICS | 332510 — Hardware Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set-Aside — Total |
| Response deadline | October 30, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small businesses under NAICS 332510 (Hardware Manufacturing), with total small business set-aside. To qualify, your business must:
- Meet the Small Business Administration's size standard for NAICS 332510
- Be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) with active status
- Have the applicable FSC 53 hardware supply capability or manufacturing capacity
You need not be a traditional "manufacturer" to compete. Under DLA's acquisition framework for hardware items, small businesses may bid as manufacturers, distributors, or qualified suppliers who can provide items meeting military specifications or commercial equivalents. DLA Aviation frequently sources through its [Qualified Suppliers List for Manufacturers (QSLM)](https://www.dla.mil/LandandMaritime/Offers/Business Opportunities/QSLM/) and [Qualified Testing Suppliers List (QTSL)](https://www.dla.mil/LandandMaritime/Offers/Business Opportunities/QTSL/) programs—check whether the spacer sleeve requires such qualification.
How to put together a competitive bid
Verify technical requirements. Spacer sleeves may be governed by military standards (MS/AN/NAS), aerospace standards (AS/NA), or DLA drawings. See the solicitation for the exact part number, material specification, dimensions, finish requirements, and any source control or qualification constraints.
Assess your supply position. If you stock or can readily source FSC 53 hardware, confirm traceability documentation and certificate of conformance capabilities. Aviation hardware demands rigorous material certification.
Price Strategically for DLA's market. DLA Aviation contracts often use Economic Price Adjustment (EPA) clauses for raw material volatility. Review whether aluminum, steel, or exotic alloy price fluctuations affect your materials base.
Review delivery terms. DLA typically requires Vendor Shipment Module (VSM) compliance and may specify DLA Distribution Richmond or another receiving depot. Confirm your capacity to meet any required delivery schedule.
Consider DLA's supply chain preferences. Past performance with DLA, existing Qualified Suppliers List status, and ability to support long-term indefinite-delivery contracts strengthen competitiveness.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A727T1817 to obtain the complete item description, specifications, quantity, and packaging requirements
- Confirm your SAM registration is active and your business profile reflects NAICS 332510
- Submit your offer before October 30, 2026
The eight-day window between posting and deadline suggests either a very streamlined procurement or that this represents a re-solicitation—review the full notice for any special instructions or past solicitation references.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →