How to bid on 20mm F-16 Ammunition Handling Set production for DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Department of Defense is seeking proposals for the production of the 20mm Mechanical Housing, National Stock Number (NSN) 1005-01-190-9802, part number 209F953. This component is crucial for the M61A1 gun transfer unit, which handles the transfer of live rounds and spent cases for the F-16 aircraft.

DLA Weapons Support plans to award up to three multiple-award Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts. Up to two of these awards are specifically set aside for small businesses, making this a significant opportunity for eligible small firms in the defense manufacturing sector.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Proposal (RFP) was published on August 24, 2026. The deadline for proposal submissions is September 25, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. All proposals must be submitted by this time.

The primary point of contact for proposal submissions is PCO Chrissie Smith, [email protected]. It is essential to ensure all required documentation and certifications, including CMMC Level 2 status for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), are in place by the time of contract award.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers with experience in producing critical application items for defense systems, specifically ammunition handling components. Firms that are already approved or pre-qualified sources for the 20mm Mechanical Housing are encouraged to compete.

Small businesses are particularly encouraged to bid, given the set-aside awards. Offerors must be prepared to handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and will need an active Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 status at the time of contract award. Subcontractors handling CUI will also need to meet CMMC requirements.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details and documents, you need to click the “View original source” link on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.

You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all the necessary documents. Once you have access, review all attachments, including RFP Amendment 01, and any forms like Form 260, which contains information on First Article Test requirements and waivers.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Pay close attention to the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements. An active CMMC Level 2 status is mandatory at the time of contract award for any offeror handling CUI. Ensure your subcontractors also understand and meet their respective CMMC obligations.

Review the First Article Test (FAT) requirements carefully. If you have previously supplied similar articles to the Air Force with satisfactory performance within the last 36 months, you may be eligible for a waiver. Provide all necessary information, including procuring office, contract number, date, and specification number, to support your waiver request.

Since this is a Critical Application Item, Source Approval Request (SAR) packages remain valid for 7 years. If you are a pre-qualified but unapproved source, be prepared to complete first article testing. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses all technical specifications and compliance requirements outlined in the RFP.