Bid guide
How to bid on Servocylinder Assem_End_Item_B-1 for the DEPT of Defense
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Air Force is conducting market research to find potential sources for manufacturing servocylinder assemblies for B-1 aircraft. They are looking for firms capable of producing 18 units, with a potential range of 5 to 27 units. The specific part is NSN 1650-01-184-8758, Part Number L5872400-021.
This is an opportunity for manufacturers of aircraft components to potentially secure future contracts with the Air Force. The work involves furnishing all labor, materials, facilities, and equipment for new manufacture, including procurement of component parts, inspection, testing, preservation, packaging, and shipping. Supply chain management and logistics planning may also be required.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Sources Sought Synopsis was published on August 03, 2026. Responses are due by September 02, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. This is a market research notice, not a request for proposal, so no contract will be awarded based on responses to this notice.
The Air Force will use the information gathered to determine the best acquisition strategy for this requirement, including whether it can be competitive or set aside for small businesses. There is no solicitation available at this time, and requests for one will not receive a response.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for businesses of all sizes, including large businesses, small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, 8(a)s, service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, HUBZone businesses, and women-owned small businesses. The NAICS code for this requirement is 336413, Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing, with a size standard of 1,250 employees.
Firms with experience in manufacturing complex aircraft components, particularly those related to flight control systems, would be well-suited. Potential sources should be prepared to handle all aspects of production, from component procurement to final shipping, and may be responsible for nonrecurring engineering costs to become an approved source. The place of performance is Tinker AFB, Oklahoma.
How to respond to this request for information
To be considered a participant in this market research effort, interested sources must select the “ADD ME TO INTERESTED VENDORS” button on the original portal posting. This is the primary step to indicate your interest.
If you are a potential source wishing to be qualified for this requirement, you are required to complete a Source Approval Request (SAR) package. Qualification Requirements (QRs) and an Engineering Data List (EDL) are attached to the original notice. The official synopsis of QRs can be found by searching sam.gov for the keyword MQR-PSD-1. For questions regarding the Tinker SAR process, contact the AFSC Small Business Office via email at [email protected]. SAR packages must be submitted electronically through DoD SAFE.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Even though this is not a solicitation, a thorough response to a Sources Sought notice can position your firm favorably for future opportunities. Clearly demonstrate your firm's capability to manufacture the specified servocylinder assembly, including your experience with similar complex aerospace components.
If a Source Approval Request (SAR) package is required, start preparing it early. Ensure all necessary documentation, certifications, and technical data are complete and accurate. Highlight your firm's quality control processes, manufacturing capacity, and ability to meet potential production volumes. If the government cannot provide technical data, be prepared to explain how your firm will independently acquire the necessary data.
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.