How to bid on F-16 Aircraft Controller Grip Assemblies for the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Department of Defense is seeking an indefinite-quantity contract for aircraft controller grip assemblies, specifically part number 16P1873-889, used on F-16 aircraft. This contract has a three-year base period with an estimated annual quantity of 40 units. Delivery for each order will be 545 days after the order date. Inspection and acceptance will occur at the origin, and the destination is FOB.

Key dates and deadlines

This is a Request for Information (RFI) published on September 09, 2026. The deadline for responses to this RFI is September 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET. The actual solicitation for this procurement is expected to be issued on or about October 24, 2026.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for manufacturers or suppliers of aircraft equipment, specifically those with experience in producing controller grip assemblies for F-16 aircraft. The procurement is unrestricted, but it is not a full and open competition. Bidders must be certified by the Department of Defense to access restricted unclassified technical data, which requires submitting DD Form 2345, Military Critical Technical Data Agreement, to the Defense Logistics Information Services.

The item is currently manufactured by Mason Electric Co. (CAGE 81579), Lockheed Martin Corporation (CAGE 81755), and Aerospace & Commercial Technologies, Inc (CAGE 1XKR3).

How to respond

The solicitation, when issued around October 24, 2026, 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)” from the menu under the “Solicitations” tab, and then search for the specific RFP. You will need the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the PDF documents. A paper copy of the solicitation will not be provided.

Tips for a competitive response

Ensure your company is certified by the Department of Defense to access unclassified technical data by submitting DD Form 2345 well in advance. This is a mandatory requirement for viewing the necessary technical specifications.

Prepare for a potential reverse auction. The solicitation includes Procurement Note L09, Reverse Auction. Offerors are encouraged to access the Procurex system to self-register and review available training tools to understand how to participate. Questions about the reverse auction can be directed to the Reverse Auction Program Manager at [email protected].

Carefully review all delivery requirements, including the 545 days after order date, and ensure your production and supply chain can meet these timelines. Also, note that inspection and acceptance will be at the origin, and FOB is at destination.