59--CABLE ASSEMBLY,SPECIAL
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, located at DLA Aviation Richmond, is soliciting bids for cable assembly, special—electrical wiring and cable harness assemblies used in military aviation and aerospace applications. This falls under Federal Supply Classification 59, covering electrical and electronic equipment components.
Cable assemblies in this category typically include custom-fabricated wire harnesses, coaxial cable assemblies, and specialized interconnect solutions built to military specifications. These components are critical for aircraft avionics, communication systems, power distribution, and signal transmission platforms. DLA Aviation serves as the primary supply chain manager for military services and defense agencies, procuring spare parts and consumables to maintain aircraft readiness.
Given the "special" designation in the item description, this likely involves non-standard or mission-specific configurations rather than commercially available off-the-shelf products. Contractors should expect requirements for traceability, quality certifications, and adherence to military performance standards.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation, DLA Aviation Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A627T3596 |
| NAICS | 335931 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside – Total |
| Response deadline | October 20, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in notice (see the solicitation) |
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small business concerns under NAICS code 335931 (Fiber Optic Cable Manufacturing). To qualify, your business must meet Small Business Administration size standards for this industry and appear as "small" in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). Certifications such as 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, or WOSB are not required—standard small business eligibility suffices.
Given DLA Aviation's mission, contractors should possess or be prepared to obtain:
- Quality certifications: ISO 9001 or AS9100 (aerospace quality standard) are typically expected for aviation-electrical suppliers
- Military specifications compliance: Familiarity with MIL-DTL, MIL-PRF, or MIL-STD requirements for cable assemblies
- SAM registration: Active and current at time of award
- DFARS compliance: Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement clauses apply to DLA procurements
DLA frequently sources from experienced aerospace cable manufacturers, but new entrants with relevant capabilities and certifications are encouraged to compete. Prior government contracting experience is not mandatory for set-aside awards.
How to put together a competitive bid
Review the full solicitation documents immediately. Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notices contain embedded terms, conditions, and technical specifications within SAM.gov. Download all attachments—these typically include drawings, qualified manufacturer lists (QML), testing requirements, and delivery schedules.
Assess technical requirements against your capabilities. Special cable assemblies often require:
- Exact conductor gauge, insulation materials, and shielding configurations
- Specific connector types (MIL-DTL-38999, M24308, or proprietary designs)
- Serialization, lot traceability, and certificate of conformance documentation
- Environmental and vibration testing per applicable military standards
Evaluate supply chain and lead time. Fiber optic and specialized conductor materials may carry long procurement cycles. Confirm your ability to meet any required delivery dates before bidding.
Pricing strategy: DLA procurements frequently award on lowest-price, technically acceptable (LPTA) basis. Analyze your direct material costs, manufacturing labor, testing overhead, and any first-article inspection requirements. Consider whether a multi-year or multi-quantity pricing approach applies—see the solicitation for any stated options.
Submit through SAM.gov. Electronic submission is mandatory. Allow buffer time for system issues; DLA does not typically accept late submissions.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov by searching solicitation number SPE4A627T3596 or the October 13, 2026 posting date
- Confirm your SAM registration status and small business representation are current
- Note the response deadline: October 20, 2026—seven days from posting creates an accelerated timeline requiring immediate action
- Download and analyze all technical attachments before committing resources to a bid response
If the compressed schedule is unworkable, monitor SAM.gov for potential amendments extending the deadline, though this is not guaranteed for DLA Aviation routine procurements.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →