Bid guide
How to bid on Brake Plate Assemblies for Prowler EA-68 Aircraft, DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Department of Defense is seeking Brake Plate Assemblies, NSN 1630-00-186-8698, for the Prowler EA-68 Aircraft. This will be an Indefinite Quantity Contract (IQC) for a base period of five years, with no option periods. The estimated annual quantity is 80 units.
This is an opportunity for vendors to secure a long-term contract to supply a critical aircraft component. The contract specifies delivery 440 days after each order, with inspection and acceptance at origin, and FOB at destination.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This is currently a Request for Information (RFI) published on July 28, 2026. The deadline for responses to this RFI is August 12, 2026, at 8:00 AM ET. This deadline is for the RFI phase, which helps the agency gather information before issuing the formal solicitation.
The actual solicitation is expected to be issued on or about September 11, 2026. Once the solicitation is released, it will have its own specific deadline for proposals, which will be detailed in the solicitation documents.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers or suppliers experienced with aircraft braking systems and components, specifically those familiar with the Prowler EA-68 aircraft. The part number is 9535954, and it is currently manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation (CAGE 25500), Goodyear and Rubber Co (CAGE 73842), and Meggitt Aircraft Braking Systems (CAGE 0B9R9).
While the procurement is unrestricted, it is noted as 'other than full and open competition,' indicating a preference or existing relationship with specific manufacturers or their authorized distributors. Vendors with a strong background in defense aviation parts and a proven supply chain for such items would be well-suited.
How to respond to this opportunity
The formal solicitation will be available via the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) on or about September 11, 2026. To access it, you will need to visit the DIBBS website. From 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), requiring Adobe Acrobat Reader to view. A paper copy of the solicitation will not be available. This solicitation includes Procurement Note L09, Reverse Auction. Offerors are encouraged to access the Procurex system to self-register and review training tools to learn about participating in an auction. Questions about the reverse auction can be directed to [email protected].
Practical tips for a competitive response
Given the nature of this indefinite quantity contract, clearly demonstrate your capacity to meet the estimated annual quantity of 80 units consistently over a five-year period. Emphasize your quality control processes and ability to adhere to the specified delivery timeframe of 440 days after each order.
Since a reverse auction may be conducted, it is crucial to prepare your pricing strategy in advance. Familiarize yourself with the Procurex system and its training tools to understand how to participate effectively. Ensure your registration is complete before the auction begins. Highlight your experience with similar defense contracts and your ability to meet all technical specifications for the Brake Plate Assembly.
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 DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.