CABLE ASSY TORPEDO,
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AVIATION PHILADELPHIA.DLA AVIATION AT PHILADELPHIA, PA · Response deadline: Thu, 12 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Philadelphia is soliciting bids for cable assemblies for torpedo systems. This falls under DLA's mission of supplying spare parts and sustainment items for military weapon systems. DLA Aviation is the primary purchasing organization for the Department of Defense's aviation and maritime supply chains.
Cable assemblies in this context are likely specialized electrical or fiber optic harnesses designed for the demanding environments of torpedo operations—including high-pressure underwater conditions, shock resistance, and precise signal integrity requirements. These are not standard commercial cables; they must meet strict military specifications for reliability and performance.
The classification code 4920 (Aircraft Maintenance and Repair Shop Specialized Equipment) and NAICS 332710 (Machine Shops; Turned Product; and Screw, Nut, and Bolt Manufacturing) suggest this procurement involves precision-manufactured components. However, the actual scope and technical requirements—such as quantities, specific torpedo programs supported, drawings, or performance specifications—see the solicitation.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation Philadelphia |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPRPA127QYA13 |
| NAICS | 332710 |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | November 12, 2026 at 4:30 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata—see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This solicitation is full and open competition with no small business set-aside. Any responsible offeror—large or small—that can meet the technical, quality, and delivery requirements may submit a bid.
Small businesses in NAICS 332710 or related precision manufacturing fields should evaluate whether their capabilities align with defense-grade cable assembly production. Key qualifications typically include:
- Quality systems: ISO 9001 and likely AS9100 (aerospace) or equivalent military-specification compliance
- Manufacturing certifications: Experience with MIL-STD or MIL-PRF wire and cable specifications
- Past performance: Evidence of delivering to DLA, other defense agencies, or comparable high-reliability sectors
Small businesses without direct defense experience may still compete if they demonstrate equivalent technical capability and are prepared to navigate DLA's contracting requirements. First-time DLA suppliers must obtain a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code and maintain active registration in SAM.gov.
How to put together a competitive bid
For unrestricted DLA solicitations, price competition is typically intense, especially from established defense contractors. Small businesses should focus on differentiation through:
Technical compliance: Obtain and review all referenced specifications, source control drawings, and quality requirements before committing resources. Non-compliance is a common basis for rejection.
Quality assurance: Emphasize inspection capabilities, traceability systems, and lot acceptance testing. DLA Aviation places heavy weight on quality metrics and supplier past performance.
Proposal efficiency: DLA solicitations often use simplified acquisition procedures or automated evaluation. Ensure your response addresses every line item, delivery schedule, and clause requirement precisely as structured.
Pricing strategy: Analyze historical pricing for similar DLA cable assembly awards if available. Factor in special tooling, testing, and certification costs that commercial jobs may not require.
Teaming consideration: If direct bidding seems impractical, consider subcontracting relationships with current DLA suppliers or pursuing a mentor-protégé arrangement.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPRPA127QYA13
- Download all attachments, especially technical specifications, drawings, and clauses
- Confirm deadline: Responses due November 12, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern Time—allow buffer time for SAM.gov technical issues
- Verify place of performance and delivery requirements in the solicitation
- Assess qualification gaps early; allow lead time for any needed certifications or CAGE code updates
This notice was posted October 29, 2026, giving approximately two weeks to prepare a response—typical for DLA commodity solicitations but demanding for first-time bidders.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →