Bid guide
How to bid on Samarium and Gadolinium RFI from the Defense Logistics Agency
What the DLA Warstopper Program is seeking
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Warstopper Program is requesting information about samarium and gadolinium metals. This is a Request for Information (RFI) only, meaning the DLA is gathering data for planning purposes, not soliciting proposals or making purchases at this time. The goal is to establish a buffer of these metals.
Vendors should care because this RFI helps the DLA understand the industrial base for these critical materials. Your input can shape future DLA strategies for ensuring a stable supply of these metals, which are vital for national defense applications.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This RFI was published on July 14, 2026. Responses must be received by August 31, 2026, before 3:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline.
At the deadline, the DLA will stop accepting responses. It is the vendor's responsibility to ensure their email response is received and viewable by the contract specialist. Not responding to this RFI does not prevent you from participating in any future solicitations, should they arise.
Who this opportunity suits
This RFI is suitable for companies involved in the production, supply, or use of samarium and gadolinium metals, particularly those that support DPAS-rated orders. This includes manufacturers of magnets and other end-products that rely on these rare earth metals.
The DLA is interested in firms that can provide detailed information on purity levels, physical forms, quantities, lead times, and supply chain compliance related to these materials. This falls under the equipment category, specifically raw materials for defense manufacturing.
How to respond to this RFI
To respond, you need to submit your information and any questions via email to the contract specialist, Christy Boyer, at [email protected]. The subject line of your email must be "RFI – SmCo".
Verbal questions or responses will not be accepted. Ensure your email is received and viewable by the deadline. If you have proprietary specification information, you are responsible for identifying it as Business Confidential within your submission.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When preparing your response, be as specific and detailed as possible regarding the requested information. Clearly address all points, such as exact purity levels, maximum allowable impurity limits, physical forms, typical ratios for gadolinium, annual and projected demand, and current lead times.
Highlight your compliance with DFARS 252.225-7052 if applicable, and describe your waste management and recycling processes. Providing comprehensive and accurate data will help the DLA in their planning and demonstrate your expertise in this specialized area.
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.