How to bid on filter elements for C/KC-135 aircraft from the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Department of Defense is seeking a five-year, fixed-price, Indefinite Quantity Contract for fluid filter elements, specifically NSN 2945-01-050-5726, used on C/KC-135 Stratolifter aircraft. This is a critical application item.

The estimated annual demand is 2,400 units. Delivery orders will range from 600 to 2,400 units, with production delivery required within 275 days. The contract will be competitively awarded, with the final decision based on factors like price, past performance, and other evaluation criteria outlined in the solicitation.

Key dates and deadlines

This is currently a Request for Information (RFI), not a solicitation. The actual solicitation is expected to be issued on or about September 3, 2026. The deadline for responses to this RFI is October 05, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET.

Offerors must complete a copy of the solicitation once it is released to be considered for award.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers and suppliers of aircraft fluid filter elements, particularly those with experience in critical application items. The contract is unrestricted, meaning it is open to all qualified businesses.

Firms currently manufacturing similar items, such as Pti Technologies Inc. (CAGE 05228) and Textron Aviation Inc (CAGE 7EK50), may find this particularly relevant.

How to respond

The solicitation, once issued, will be available through the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS). You will need to access DIBBS, select 'Search RFPs', and then choose the relevant RFP to download it. The documents will be in PDF format, requiring Adobe Acrobat Reader.

A reverse auction may be conducted as part of this solicitation. To participate, you must register your company at dla.procurexinc.com. Training materials are available on the Procurex site, and support is available via email at [email protected] or by calling 866-412-7161.

Tips for a competitive response

Given this is a critical application item, ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your ability to meet stringent quality and performance standards. Highlight any relevant certifications or past experience with similar critical components.

Pay close attention to the specified delivery timeframe of 275 days for production units. Your proposal should show a clear plan for meeting this schedule. Also, be prepared for the reverse auction process by familiarizing yourself with the Procurex system and strategy.

Since the award will be based on factors including price and past performance, ensure your pricing is competitive and provide strong references or examples of successful past contracts for similar scope and scale.