Solicitation: Type V Airdrop Main Panel Assembly NSN: 1670-01-304-3006
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE ARMY.AMC.ACC.ACC-CTRS.ACC-DTA.W6QK ACC- DTA · Response deadline: Fri, 09 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Army is seeking a Type V Airdrop Main Panel Assembly (NSN 1670-01-304-3006), a component used in military airdrop systems. This equipment is part of the broader category of cargo delivery and parachute systems that allow the Army to deliver supplies, equipment, and vehicles from aircraft to ground locations. Main panel assemblies are structural components that help form the load-bearing surface of airdrop platforms.
NAICS code 332510 classifies this as work in the Hardware Manufacturing industry—specifically fabricated metal product manufacturing. Companies in this sector typically produce metal structural components, cut and formed metal parts, and related hardware assemblies. The classification code 1670 (Aircraft Airframe Structural Components) further confirms this is a defense-specific aerospace structure.
This is a full and open competition with no small-business set-aside. Large and small businesses alike may submit offers.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Army (ACC-DTA) |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | W912CH-26-B-A010 |
| NAICS | 332510 — Hardware Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | No Set Aside Used |
| Response deadline | October 9, 2026, 5:30 PM EDT |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata |
Who can bid
Any qualified business—large or small—may bid on this unrestricted competition. However, prospective offerors should realistically assess several barriers:
- Defense manufacturing experience: Airdrop components must meet stringent military specifications for strength, reliability, and aerial delivery performance. Prior defense or aerospace metal fabrication work is highly advantageous.
- NSN familiarity: The National Stock Number (1670-01-304-3006) indicates an existing item in the federal supply system. Bidders should understand whether this is a straight rebuy, a minor variation, or requires reverse engineering.
- Quality systems: Army airdrop hardware typically requires ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality certifications, plus familiarity with military standards (MIL-STD) for materials, welding, and non-destructive testing.
- Security clearance: While not stated in metadata, manufacturing for airdrop systems may require facility security clearances; see the solicitation.
Small hardware shops without defense contracting experience face steep learning curves. Consider subcontracting relationships or mentor-protégé arrangements if pursuing this as a new market entry.
How to put together a competitive bid
Obtain the technical data package immediately: NSN items often require exact replication to existing drawings. Request drawings, specifications, and approved sources list through the solicitation contact. Lead times for technical data can be lengthy.
Verify material and process capabilities: Main panel assemblies for airdrop use typically involve aluminum or steel alloys, precision cutting, forming, welding, and possibly heat treatment. Confirm your shop can meet any required Nadcap or specific process certifications.
Analyze the incumbency: Research prior contracts for this NSN through USAspending.gov or FPDS to understand historical pricing and previous awardees. This informs competitive pricing without underbidding unsustainably.
Assess source approval requirements: Some defense hardware requires qualification testing or government approval of manufacturing processes before contract award. Determine if this applies and whether qualification samples are due with the proposal.
Price strategically: With no set-aside, expect competition from established defense contractors. Build detailed cost narratives covering raw materials (affected by aluminum/steel commodity volatility), labor hours, overhead, and any tooling amortization.
Review delivery requirements and bonding: See the solicitation for required delivery schedules and any bid or performance bond requirements for offer validity.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using number W912CH-26-B-A010. All technical specifications, evaluation criteria, and required representations are located there.
- Note the deadline: October 9, 2026, at 5:30 PM EDT. Army solicitations typically require submission through SAM.gov or ASVAC; confirm the exact method and any mandatory pre-bid conference attendance in the full notice.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →