Open federal opportunities

62--LENS ASSEMBLY

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 procuring lens assemblies, which are optical components used in aircraft systems, targeting equipment, avionics, or other defense-related applications. Lens assemblies in the aviation context typically integrate multiple optical elements—lenses, housings, mounts, and sometimes coatings or seals—into a single unit ready for installation. These parts support military readiness by ensuring proper function of sighting systems, sensors, cameras, or other vision-dependent equipment on aircraft platforms.

The classification code 62 and NAICS 336320 (Other Motor Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing) indicate this is categorized under vehicular lighting and electrical equipment, though in defense procurement this NAICS frequently covers aviation-specific optical and electronic assemblies as well. DLA Aviation manages procurement for spare and repair parts across military aircraft fleets, so this acquisition likely supports sustainment of existing platforms rather than new production.

Key facts

Who can bid

This is a full and open competition with no small business set-aside, meaning any responsible source—large or small business—may submit an offer. Given the NAICS 336320 and the technical nature of lens assemblies, potential bidders typically include:

• Manufacturers of optical or electro-optical components with defense or aviation experience
• Aerospace parts suppliers already serving DLA or military aircraft programs
• Small businesses in the supply chain that can meet technical specifications and delivery requirements, even competing directly against larger firms

Because no set-aside applies, small businesses should realistically assess whether they can compete on price, technical capability, and past performance against established defense contractors. The absence of a small business preference means past performance with DLA or similar agencies becomes particularly important for evaluation credibility.

Certifications likely required include registration in SAM.gov (active and current), and compliance with DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement) clauses typical for DLA Aviation procurements. Technical data rights, counterfeit parts avoidance, and quality standards such as AS9100 or ISO 9001 are commonly relevant for this product category, though specific requirements are not stated in this notice—see the solicitation.

How to put together a competitive bid

For defense optical assemblies, competitiveness typically hinges on:

Technical compliance. Lens assemblies for military aviation demand precise optical specifications—focal length, coating performance, environmental sealing, vibration resistance, and thermal stability. Obtain the complete specification from the solicitation and verify your product matches or document any deviations explicitly.

Traceability and quality documentation. DLA Aviation emphasizes source traceability, material certifications, and adherence to military specifications (MIL-PRF, MIL-STD). Prepare to provide test data, certificates of conformance, and supplier documentation.

Pricing strategy. With no set-aside, expect competition from incumbent suppliers with established cost histories. Review historical pricing for similar national stock numbers if available, and ensure your pricing includes all indirect costs, packaging, and shipping to DLA's likely destination (often DLA Distribution Richmond or other DLA depots).

Past performance references. If you have prior DLA, military, or commercial aviation contracts, highlight on-time delivery and quality acceptance rates. Lack of direct defense experience requires stronger technical and price positioning.

Proposal completeness. Combined synopsis/solicitation notices often incorporate terms by reference—verify you acknowledge all incorporated clauses and provide required representations and certifications.

Next steps

Access the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A627T7899. The complete document will specify technical requirements, delivery schedule, evaluation criteria, and any amendments. Note the response deadline of November 9, 2026—allow adequate time for internal review and submission through SAM.gov or the designated electronic system. Set calendar alerts for any questions deadline and final submission cutoff, as DLA typically does not accept late proposals.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →