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INDICATOR,HEIGHT

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA AVIATION.DLA AVIATION PHILADELPHIA.DLA AVIATION AT PHILADELPHIA, PA · Response deadline: Mon, 16 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

DLA Aviation at Philadelphia is soliciting bids for INDICATOR,HEIGHT, identified under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 5841. This FSC covers optical instruments and related equipment used for measuring and indicating height or altitude. Height indicators in this category typically include devices such as altimeters, height-finding equipment, or other instrumentation that provides vertical position data for aircraft or related aviation systems.

This is a manufacturing procurement under NAICS 334511, which covers Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing. Companies in this NAICS code produce instruments used for navigation, guidance, and flight control in military and civilian aviation applications. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procures such items to sustain military aircraft readiness and support depot-level repair programs.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside program restrictions. Any responsible business entity capable of manufacturing or supplying the required height indicator may submit an offer, provided they meet DLA's qualification requirements for defense procurement.

Given the NAICS 334511 classification, prospective bidders typically include:

• Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with existing technical data packages and production capabilities for military avionics
• Qualified distributors with established supply chains for FSC 5841 items
• Small manufacturers in the search/detection/navigation instrument sector, though without a small business set-aside, they will compete directly with large firms

Bidders must generally demonstrate compliance with DFARS and MIL-SPEC requirements applicable to aviation-critical components, including quality assurance and traceability standards. See the solicitation for specific qualification criteria, security clearances, and past performance requirements.

How to put together a competitive bid

For manufacturing solicitations in the DLA Aviation supply chain, consider these elements:

Technical compliance: Verify your product matches the exact part number, specification, and performance characteristics described. DLA Aviation procurements often reference military specifications (MIL-PRF, MIL-DTL) or manufacturer's technical data. Request the drawing package and specification if not automatically provided.

Pricing strategy: Analyze historical procurement data through DLA's Procure-to-Pay or FPDS systems to understand competitive price ranges. Factor in long-lead materials, special testing, and packaging for military shipment.

Quality systems: Ensure your quality management system meets ISO 9001 or AS9100 standards commonly expected for aviation items. Verify your Cage Code registration and SAM status are active.

Past performance: Document relevant deliveries to DLA or other DoD customers. If you're new to DLA Aviation, highlight comparable commercial aviation experience.

Delivery schedule: Propose a realistic delivery timeline that meets or beats the government's required date, with clear identification of any manufacturing constraints.

Next steps

1. Access the full solicitation immediately on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPRPA127QWA23 to review the complete specification, quantities, packaging requirements, and evaluation criteria.

2. Download all attachments, including any technical data packages, specifications, and provision/attachment checklists.

3. Submit questions through SAM.gov if any requirements are unclear, allowing adequate time for agency response before the deadline.

4. Note the firm deadline: November 16, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern Time — late submissions are not accepted in DLA solicitations.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →