63--SENSING ELEMENT,FIRE D
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AV RICHMOND.DLA AVIATION · Response deadline: Mon, 26 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is procuring sensing elements for fire detection systems, classified under Federal Supply Classification 63 (Alarm, Signal, and Security Detection Systems). DLA Aviation serves as the primary aviation supply chain manager for the Department of Defense, supporting military aircraft and ground support equipment worldwide.
Sensing elements for fire detection are critical safety components used in aircraft fire suppression and warning systems. These devices detect heat, flame, or combustion byproducts and trigger alert mechanisms or automatic suppression systems. Given DLA Aviation's role, these items likely support military air platforms—potentially fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, or ground support equipment operated by the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. The specific technical requirements, performance specifications, and quantity needed are not included in the available metadata; see the solicitation for these details.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation – Richmond |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE4A127T0160 |
| NAICS | 334511 – Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside – Total |
| Response deadline | October 26, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small businesses registered in SAM.gov that qualify under NAICS 334511. For this NAICS code, the Small Business Administration size standard is typically 1,250 employees (verify current thresholds at SBA.gov).
To compete, your business must:
- Be active and compliant in SAM.gov with the correct NAICS code and small business size status
- Have manufacturing capabilities or GSA/VA schedule access that covers fire detection sensing elements, or demonstrate ability to source and deliver compliant items
- Possess or demonstrate ability to obtain any required quality certifications (such as ISO 9001 or AS9100 for aerospace applications) and military/DoD specifications referenced in the solicitation
- Meet any source qualification requirements DLA Aviation may impose for safety-critical aircraft parts
Manufacturers of fire detection and suppression components, aerospace sensor producers, and small defense subcontractors with relevant technical capabilities should evaluate this opportunity.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Fire detection sensing elements for military aviation must meet stringent reliability and environmental standards. Review the solicitation for exact specifications—likely including MIL-STD or MIL-SPEC references, temperature ranges, vibration tolerance, and electromagnetic compatibility requirements. If you are not the original manufacturer, confirm your supply chain can deliver traceable, authentic parts with proper documentation.
Verify your small business certifications. As a total small business set-aside, your size status will be verified through SAM.gov. Ensure your representations are current and accurate. If you hold SBA certifications (8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB), they are not required for this general small business set-aside but may strengthen your competitive position for evaluation factors.
Assess your past performance. DLA evaluates contractor performance through systems like CPARS. Document relevant experience delivering aerospace sensors, fire safety components, or DLA supply chain orders. Highlight on-time delivery, quality acceptance rates, and any DLA-specific contracting history.
Price strategically. Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notices often move quickly to award. Review the solicitation for evaluation methodology—lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA) or best value. For sustainment parts, total evaluated price including packaging, marking, and shipping to DLA distribution points typically prevails.
Submit electronically. DLA Aviation generally requires offers through DIBBS (DLA Internet Bid Board System) or the SAM.gov solicitation portal. Confirm submission method, file format requirements, and any mandatory representations or certifications.
Next steps
- Access the full solicitation immediately on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE4A127T0160 or the notice title. The posted date of October 18, 2026, leaves limited response time before the October 26, 2026 deadline.
- Review all technical specifications, deliverables, inspection requirements, and terms and conditions in the attached documents.
- Confirm your SAM.gov registration is active and your NAICS 334511 designation reflects small business status.
- Prepare and submit your offer before the deadline, accounting for any DIBBS or SAM.gov system processing time.
Critical note: Response timelines for DLA combined synopsis/solicitation awards are frequently short. Late submissions are typically not accepted.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →