NESO Items
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) Troop Support, Clothing & Textiles, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify potential sources capable of overseeing the production and delivery of various NESO (Non-Standard Equipment/Supply Officer) materials. The contractor will manage production and delivery, ensuring items meet standard testing and contract terms, and is not required to be a manufacturer. Responses are due by March 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
This effort seeks to identify contractors who can manage the supply chain for a comprehensive range of NESO materials. These include, but are not limited to, Flyers' Helmets and Visors, various Straps and Belts, Cold Weather Caps and Jackets, Overalls and Trousers (including Anti-G), Gloves, Bags (weapon, hydration, helmet, kit), Tents and Tarpaulins, Flags and Pennants, various types of Cloth (duck, flannel, felt, satin, twill), Fasteners and Webbing, and Protective Gear (armor, chemical suits, eye protection).
Contractor Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include:
- Production Oversight: Ensuring materials are produced according to specifications and quality control standards.
- Quality Assurance: Implementing QA programs, conducting inspections, tests, and audits.
- Supply Chain Management: Sourcing, procurement, and logistics from raw materials to finished products.
- Delivery: Ensuring timely delivery to DLA's 3PL facility in Lansing, Michigan.
- Source Identification: Assisting in identifying and qualifying additional suppliers.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate records.
- Compliance: Adhering to all applicable laws and regulations.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: March 27, 2026, 7:00 PM EDT
- Published: March 12, 2026, 5:35 PM EDT
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties must provide specific business information (CAGE code, POC, business type, places of performance), detail their experience with long-term government contracts, supply chain management, quality control, and manufacturing relationships. Capability statements are required, emphasizing experience with military specifications, government testing, and QA processes for textiles. Offerors should confirm acceptance of delivery to Lansing, Michigan, and may provide pre-pricing. Submissions should be sent electronically to jessica.reilly.shields@dla.mil.
Important Notes
- The contractor is not required to be a manufacturer.
- The government may require testing and inspection at contractor or manufacturer facilities.
- Offerors may need to provide samples or letters of commitment from manufacturers.
- Awards may not be made on an "all-or-nothing" basis; partial awards are possible.
- Quantities and dollar values are not yet established; this is for market research.
- The standard lead time for delivery is estimated at 350 days after order issuance.