How to bid on Assembly Nozzle for J85 Engine with the Department of Defense

What the Air Force is buying

The Department of the Air Force is conducting market research to identify potential suppliers for 36 new Assembly Nozzles for the J85 aircraft engine. The specific part number is 6041T41G15 and the National Stock Number (NSN) is 2840-01-284-5408. This is a sources sought notice, not a request for proposal or a guarantee of a contract.

The Air Force is interested in businesses capable of manufacturing these items, including all labor, materials, facilities, and equipment. This also involves inspection, testing, preservation, packaging, and shipping. Potential suppliers may also be responsible for supply chain management, logistics, forecasting, and addressing material shortages. The place of performance for this requirement is Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 31, 2026. Responses are due by August 31, 2026, at 12:59 AM ET. All dates and times are Central Standard Time, Chicago, USA.

This is a market research effort, and no solicitation is available at this time. The government will use the information gathered to determine the best acquisition strategy. No contract will be awarded based on this notice, and no funds are available to cover the cost of preparing a response.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers of aircraft engine parts, specifically those with experience in Federal Stock Class 2840. The North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) Code for this effort is 336412, which has a size standard of 1,500 employees.

The government is interested in responses from businesses of all sizes, including Large Businesses, Small Businesses, Small Disadvantaged Businesses (8(a)s), Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, HUBZone Businesses, and Women-Owned Small Businesses. Potential sources may need to complete source-approval requirements.

How to respond

To be considered a participant in this market research, interested sources must select the “ADD ME TO INTERESTED VENDORS” button on the portal.

For technical data, potential sources wishing to be qualified are required to complete a Source Approval Request (SAR) package. Qualification Requirements (QRs) and Engineering Data List (EDL), if applicable, are attached to the notice. The official synopsis of QRs can be found by searching sam.gov for the keyword MQR-PSD-1. Requests for engineering drawings, if listed on the EDL, should be submitted via an Excel spreadsheet to [email protected].

SAR packages must be submitted electronically through DoD SAFE (safe.apps.mil). If you have a PKI Certificate, you can send it directly. If not, email [email protected] to request a “Drop-Off” via DoD SAFE.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all attached documents, including the Qualification Requirements (QRs) and Engineering Data List (EDL). Understanding these technical details is crucial for demonstrating your capability.

If you are a new source, be prepared to address the Source Approval Request (SAR) process thoroughly. This often involves providing detailed information about your manufacturing processes, quality control, and past performance on similar items. Be aware that nonrecurring engineering costs associated with becoming an approved source may be your responsibility.

Clearly articulate your firm's ability to meet the full scope of requirements, including procurement of component parts, inspection, testing, preservation/packaging, and shipping. Highlight any experience with supply chain management, logistics planning, and addressing diminishing manufacturing sources or material shortages.