Bid guide
How to bid on Tube, Bleed Air for C-5 Galaxy Aircraft from DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Department of Defense plans to award a five-year fixed-price indefinite-quantity contract for bleed air tubes used on C-5 Galaxy aircraft. The estimated annual demand is 40 units, with individual orders ranging from 10 to 40 units. Delivery for production units is required within 317 days.
This is an opportunity for vendors to secure a long-term contract to supply critical aircraft parts. The item is source-controlled, meaning it must be manufactured by Arrowhead Products Corp. (CAGE 70628) under part number 12560-101A, or by an approved alternate source.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a solicitation. The actual solicitation is expected to be issued on or about September 15, 2026. The deadline for responses to the RFI is October 15, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. At the deadline, the agency will stop accepting information submissions related to this RFI.
It is important to note that the solicitation itself will require offerors to complete and submit a copy of the solicitation documents to be considered for award.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers or distributors of aircraft equipment, specifically those with experience in supplying critical application items. Given that the item is source-controlled, this is particularly relevant for Arrowhead Products Corp. or firms that are already approved alternate sources for this specific part.
Vendors interested in qualifying their product for future acquisitions, if they are not already an approved source, must contact the design control activity specified on the source control drawing.
How to respond
The solicitation, when issued, will be available through the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS). To access it, you will need to go to the DIBBS homepage, select 'Search RFPs', and then choose the relevant RFP to download. The documents will be in PDF format, requiring Adobe Acrobat Reader.
A paper copy of the RFP will not be available. Offerors must complete a copy of the solicitation to be considered for award.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Since this is a source-controlled item, ensure your offer clearly demonstrates compliance with the specified manufacturer and part number, or your status as an approved alternate source. If you are not an approved source, your offer will be considered an alternate and will not be evaluated.
The contract will be competitively awarded using best value selection methods, considering factors such as price, past performance, and other evaluation factors detailed in the solicitation. Prepare a comprehensive proposal that highlights your firm's capabilities, relevant experience, and competitive pricing. Pay close attention to all instructions and requirements outlined in the solicitation documents once they are released.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Logistics Agency; the original posting controls.