How to bid on C-5 Hydraulic Valve Repair for the DEPT of the Air Force

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force needs small businesses to provide depot-level repair services for C-5 aircraft mechanical components. This includes three specific types of hydraulic valves: a 60 GPM Hydraulic Relief Cartridge Valve (NSN: 1650001059655), a Temperature Compensated Pressure Regulator (NSN: 1650002418862), and a 20 GPM Hydraulic Dual Shuttle Valve (NSN: 4820001614098).

This is a five-year requirements type contract, consisting of a one-year basic period and four one-year ordering periods. The Air Force has provided estimated quantities for each valve type across all five years. This opportunity is a 100% Small Business Set Aside, making it exclusively available to eligible small businesses.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

Proposals for this solicitation are due by August 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This deadline was extended from an earlier date. All proposals must be submitted by this time to be considered by the agency.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses with expertise in the repair and maintenance of hydraulic valves and similar mechanical components, particularly those used in aerospace or heavy equipment. Firms with experience in depot-level repair for military aircraft components would be well-suited. The relevant category for this work is equipment repair.

To access the necessary technical data, interested parties must be registered in the Joint Certification Program (JCP) and approved to view Export Control information.

How to respond to this solicitation

First, ensure your business is registered in the Joint Certification Program (JCP). You will need to provide evidence of your JCP certification to obtain the technical data package. To request the bidset documents, email your CAGE number to both Alyssa Tanner ([email protected]) and Karen Beckford ([email protected]).

Upon verification of your JCP registration, the bidset zip files will be sent to you via the "DOD Safe" website. The Request for Proposal (RFP) and its attachments are also available within the attachments area of the original solicitation posting. You are encouraged to register on the portal to receive notifications about the solicitation and any amendments.

All questions regarding the solicitation must be submitted via email to Alyssa Tanner and Karen Beckford. Phone calls are not accepted. Answers to questions will be posted in a Question and Answers document on the solicitation's attachment area.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Given that this is a repair contract for specific components, thoroughly review the technical data package once you receive it. Your proposal should clearly demonstrate your firm's capability to perform depot-level repairs on these exact NSNs and PNs, including any specialized equipment, certifications, or personnel required.

Pay close attention to the estimated quantities for each ordering period over the five-year contract. Your pricing strategy should reflect these quantities and demonstrate cost-effectiveness for the government. Highlight any past performance with similar repair contracts, especially for the Department of Defense or other federal agencies, as this can strengthen your proposal.