Bid guide
How to bid on Aircraft Stiffener Ribs for B-52s, Defense Logistics Agency
What the DLA is buying and why it matters
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is looking for vendors to supply aircraft stiffener ribs for the B-52 Stratofortress. This will be an indefinite-quantity contract with a five-year base period. The DLA expects to order approximately 40 units per year.
This opportunity is a 100% small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses can compete. This is a chance for small businesses to secure a long-term contract with the DLA for a critical aircraft component.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The solicitation is expected to be issued on or about September 18, 2026. The deadline for responses is September 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. This means you will need to be ready to submit your bid shortly after the solicitation is released.
Delivery of the stiffener ribs will be required 400 days after each order is placed. Inspection and acceptance will occur at the supplier's location, and the final destination will be the government.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for small businesses that specialize in manufacturing aircraft components, particularly those with experience producing stiffener ribs or similar parts. The item is identified by NSN 1560-016479728.
Vendors must be certified by the Department of Defense (DoD) 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.
How to respond to this solicitation
The solicitation will be available through the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS). To access it, go to the DIBBS homepage, select 'Requests for Proposal (RFP) / Invitation for Bid (IFB)' under the 'Solicitations' tab, and then search for the specific RFP.
You will need the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the solicitation documents, which are in PDF format. A paper copy of the solicitation will not be provided. All questions can be directed to the Reverse Auction Program Manager at [email protected].
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Given the requirement for DoD certification to access technical data, ensure your DD Form 2345 is current and approved well in advance of the solicitation release. This is a mandatory step to even view the necessary documents.
The solicitation includes Procurement Note L09, Reverse Auction. It is highly recommended to access the Procurex system to self-register and review the available training tools. Understanding how to participate in a reverse auction will be crucial for competitive pricing. Even if you do not self-register, DLA will load you at the time of the auction.
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.