17--STRUCTURAL COMPONEN
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Philadelphia, PA, on behalf of the Department of Defense, has issued a Solicitation for Structural Components classified as new spares for Aircraft Launching Equipment (ALRE). This requirement is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside. The components are deemed Flight Critical and Critical Safety Items (CSI), necessitating stringent quality control and engineering source approval by the Naval Air Systems Command. Proposals are due by February 12, 2026.
Scope of Work
This opportunity is for the procurement of structural components used in crucial shipboard systems for aircraft launch and recovery. The items are critical, and defective material could lead to severe consequences, including personnel injury or loss of life. Key requirements include:
- Manufacturing, testing, and inspection in accordance with specified drawings (e.g., 628523-1R, 80020) and specifications.
- Compliance with MIL-STD-130 for markings.
- Contractor responsibility for all manufacturing aids (fixtures, jigs, tooling).
- Adherence to ISO 9001 or equivalent for higher-level contract quality.
- Specific critical manufacturing processes apply, including heat treat, welding, and Material Processing Requirements (MPR).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Solicitation
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business
- Response Due: February 12, 2026, 7:00 PM UTC
- Published: January 13, 2026, 12:47 PM UTC
- Product/Service Code: 1720 (Aircraft Launching Equipment)
Key Requirements & Evaluation
Award eligibility is contingent upon engineering source approval by the Naval Air Systems Command. Only companies already approved or those who submit a Source Approval Request (SAR) by the solicitation closing date will be considered. The SAR must include detailed documentation such as configuration drawings, process/operation sheets, delivery documentation for similar items, comparative analysis, and inspection method sheets.
Quality Assurance is paramount, with 100% inspection required for critical and major features, plating, hardness, and non-destructive testing (NDT). Companies performing NDT must be NADCAP accredited or ISO 17025 accredited.
First Article Testing (FAT) is mandatory, requiring the submission of one uncoated unit for Government evaluation. The contractor must provide facilities and personnel for testing and submit a detailed First Article Test Report within 15 calendar days of testing. A waiver for FAT may be granted for offerors who have previously delivered identical production units within three years from the same production location, provided they submit a certification and two price options (with/without waiver).
Mandatory Inspection by the Procurement Contracting Officer (PCO) at the source, under the surveillance of the DCMAO Quality Assurance Representative (QAR), is required. Final inspection requires 14 days' prior notification to the PCO and NAWC Lakehurst QA.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact THOMAS.KUHNLE@DLA.MIL or call 215-737-4024.