Bid guide
How to bid on the Specialty Steel RFI from the Defense Logistics Agency
What the DLA is buying and why it matters
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking information about specialty steel, including specific grades and forms, that companies use to produce parts for the Warstopper Program. This is a Request for Information (RFI) only, not a request for proposals, but it helps the DLA plan for future needs.
The Warstopper Program is critical for national defense, ensuring a robust industrial base for DLA-managed items during emergencies. Your input will help the DLA understand annual needs, lead times, and minimum buy quantities that could affect production, potentially leading to a more robust specialty steel buffer.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The RFI was published on July 14, 2026. All responses must be received by August 31, 2026, before 3:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions will not be accepted. It is your responsibility to ensure your email is received and viewable.
After the deadline, the DLA will review the submitted information to inform their planning for the Warstopper Specialty Steel Buffer. Not responding to this RFI does not prevent you from participating in any future Request for Proposal (RFP) that may be issued.
Who this opportunity suits
This RFI is suitable for companies that use specialty steel, including Triple Melt grades and specifications, to produce DPAS-rated orders. This includes manufacturers of equipment and parts that contribute to defense readiness.
The DLA is interested in understanding your annual need for specific steel specifications, common intermediaries purchased (e.g., bar, plate, rounds, sheet), current lead times, expected demand over the next five years, and any internal buffers you maintain. Information on waste production, minimum buy quantities, and products with known surge requirements is also requested.
How to respond
To respond to this RFI, you must submit your information via email to [email protected]. The subject line of your email must include "RFI – Specialty Steel".
Proprietary specification information should be clearly identified and will be held as Business Confidential by DLA Warstopper and its chain of command. Verbal questions or responses will not be accepted.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When preparing your response, be precise and thorough with all requested information. Clearly state your annual needs for each specialty steel specification, including specific grades and forms. Provide realistic lead times and your projected demand over the next five years.
If you have internal buffers or face minimum buy quantities that impact production, explain these factors clearly. Highlight any products with known surge requirements that could be affected by increased lead times. Organizing your response with clear headings corresponding to the DLA's questions will help the agency process your information efficiently.
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.