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RADOME B387

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 for a radome, a structural enclosure that protects radar equipment while allowing radio signals to pass through with minimal interference. Radomes are critical components on military aircraft, ships, and ground-based radar installations. They shield sensitive antenna systems from environmental damage—wind, rain, ice, and debris—without degrading electromagnetic performance.

This procurement falls under NAICS code 334220 (Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing), which covers manufacturers of radar, radio, and satellite communications equipment and related components. The classification code 5985 further specifies this as equipment within the federal supply group for electrical and electronic properties.

Given DLA Aviation's role as the materiel support organization for military aviation, this radome likely supports airborne radar systems or similar defense platforms where signal integrity and structural durability are paramount.

Key facts

Who can bid

This is an unrestricted solicitation with no small business set-aside, so large and small businesses alike may compete. However, NAICS 334220 carries a size standard of 1,000 employees, meaning firms at or below that threshold qualify as small businesses for SBA programs.

Bidders should have demonstrated capability in:

• Composite or engineered materials manufacturing: Radomes typically require specialized fiberglass, quartz, or Kevlar-based composites with precise dielectric properties
• Aerospace/defense quality systems: AS9100 certification and familiarity with MIL-STD or DLA quality requirements are typically expected
• Electromagnetic performance testing: Ability to verify signal transmission characteristics across operational frequency bands

Small businesses with relevant manufacturing experience should not self-exclude; DLA solicitations often attract diverse competitors, and past performance on similar defense components strengthens any proposal.

How to put together a competitive bid

Verify technical qualifications early. Review the full solicitation for exact radome specifications—dimensions, frequency range, platform fit, environmental requirements, and any First Article Test requirements. DLA Aviation procurements often include detailed product drawings and performance specifications.

Confirm your supply chain. Raw materials for radome production—especially low-loss composite prepregs and resins—can have long lead times. Demonstrate supply security in your proposal or identify potential delivery risks.

Emphasize quality and traceability. DLA requires strict lot control, material certifications, and test documentation. Highlight your Quality Management System and any past DLA or military aviation contracts.

Price strategically. With no set-aside, you'll compete against established defense contractors. Analyze historical pricing for similar NSNs if available, and ensure your cost buildup captures all DLA fees and freight requirements.

Check for specific clauses. DLA Aviation contracts typically include Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) provisions, Buy American Act requirements, and potentially cybersecurity clauses under DFARS 252.204-7012.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPRPA127QUA03 to obtain technical specifications, delivery requirements, and all contractual clauses
2. Note the firm deadline: November 16, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern Time—late submissions are not accepted
3. Validate SAM registration and any required certifications before preparing your proposal

See the solicitation for complete requirements.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →