How to bid on 20mm F-16 Ammunition Handling Set for Defense Logistics Agency

What the agency is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking manufacturers for the 20mm Mechanical Housing, NSN 1005-01-190-9802, which is a transfer unit for the M61A1 gun on F-16 aircraft. This unit manages the transfer of live rounds and empty cases within the gun system.

The DLA plans to award up to three Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts, each with five 12-month ordering periods. Up to two of these awards may be set aside for small businesses. This is a new competitive acquisition for this item.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on July 02, 2026. Interested parties must identify their interest and capability by the closing date of August 10, 2026, at 2:30 PM ET. This deadline is also when cybersecurity compliance must be met for awardees.

While an active CMMC 2.0 Level 2 assessment is not required at proposal submission, the selected awardee must have this level active and verified in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) at the time of contract award. The contracting officer cannot legally execute the award without this active status.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers with the engineering and manufacturing capability to produce the 20mm Mechanical Housing. Due to the critical nature of the item, engineering source approval by the design control activity is required to maintain quality.

Companies must be prepared to meet CMMC 2.0 Level 2 (Advanced) requirements, as the effort involves ITAR-controlled technical data and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This cybersecurity requirement also flows down to all subcontractors handling CUI under the contract. Source Approval Request (SAR) packages remain valid for 7 years from the approval date.

How to respond

To respond, interested parties must identify their interest and capability by the August 10, 2026 deadline. This should be communicated to Todd Stimus at [email protected] and Chrissie Smith at [email protected].

The full Request for Proposal (RFP) details will be available on the portal. You may need to create a free account to view all documents. The DLA intends to award competitive contracts based on best value using tradeoff award procedures in FAR Part 15.

Tips for a competitive response

Ensure your company's capabilities align precisely with the item description and the critical application requirements. Highlight any existing unique design capability, engineering skills, or manufacturing knowledge that demonstrates your ability to meet the quality standards.

Begin preparing for CMMC 2.0 Level 2 compliance immediately if you do not already have it. This is a pre-award requirement for the selected awardee and will be a critical factor. Also, ensure any subcontractors who will handle CUI are aware of and can meet this requirement.

If you are a pre-qualified but unapproved source, be ready to produce First Articles as part of the qualification process. Clearly articulate your qualification procedures and how they align with government engineering activity approvals.