Bid guide
How to bid on Air Conditioning Duct parts for C-5 Galaxy aircraft from DLA
What the DLA is buying and why it matters
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking air conditioning duct parts for C-5 Galaxy aircraft. Specifically, the DLA needs items manufactured according to basic drawing 98897 4A10101, revision E, dated June 18, 1986, part piece number 4A10101-103E.
This is an indefinite quantity contract for a base period of five years. The estimated annual quantity is 40 units. Delivery for production units will be 744 days after the date of order. This opportunity is set aside 100% for small businesses, making it a good target for eligible firms.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The solicitation was published on September 03, 2026. The deadline for responses is September 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. All proposals must be submitted by this time.
This procurement includes a reverse auction, which means that after initial proposals, bidders may have the opportunity to lower their prices in a live online auction. Offerors are encouraged to access the Procurex system to self-register and review training tools to learn more about participating in an auction. Offerors who do not self-register will be loaded at the time of auction by DLA.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for small businesses specializing in manufacturing aircraft equipment or components, particularly those with experience in producing parts to specific technical drawings and part numbers. Firms that can meet the long delivery schedule and have the capacity for first-article testing will be well-suited.
Bidders must be Department of Defense (DOD) certified to access restricted unclassified technical data. This certification is obtained by submitting DD Form 2345, Military Critical Technical Data Agreement, to the Defense Logistics Information Services. First article testing is required, with delivery of first article units due 282 days after order, followed by government testing and evaluation for 180 days.
How to respond to this solicitation
The solicitation was expected to be available via the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS). To access the solicitation, go to the DIBBS homepage, select “Requests for Proposal (RFP) / Invitation for Bid (IFB)” from the menu under the “Solicitations” tab. Then, search for and choose the RFP you wish to download. Solicitations are in Portable Document Format (PDF) and require Adobe Acrobat Reader to view.
A paper copy of the solicitation will not be available. All questions regarding the reverse auction can be directed to the Reverse Auction Program Manager at [email protected].
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Given the requirement for manufacturing to a specific drawing and part number, ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your firm's capability to meet these precise specifications. Highlight any relevant experience with similar complex manufacturing tasks for aircraft components. Provide detailed information on your quality control processes.
Since first-article testing is required, outline your plan for producing and submitting the first article units within the specified 282-day timeframe. Emphasize your ability to meet the inspection and acceptance terms for both first article and production units. Also, be prepared for the reverse auction by understanding the Procurex system and having a competitive pricing strategy ready.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Logistics Agency; the original posting controls.