Bid guide

How to bid on T-38 Regulating Valve Spares Procurement (FD20302700258) for the Air Force

Defense Logistics AgencyCloses October 1, 2026

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The United States Air Force is conducting market research to find potential suppliers for 38 regulating valves for the T-38 aircraft. The specific part is NSN 4820-01-109-4813HS, part number 5102-3. This effort aims to identify companies capable of manufacturing and providing these critical spares.

This is an opportunity for businesses to inform the Air Force about their capabilities for this specific part. While no contract is being awarded now, your response helps the government determine its future acquisition strategy, potentially leading to a competitive solicitation later.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Sources Sought Synopsis was published on August 31, 2026. Responses are due by October 01, 2026, at 12:59 AM ET. All dates and times are listed in Central Standard Time, Chicago, USA.

This is market research, not a request for proposal. The Air Force will use the information gathered to decide the best way to acquire these valves in the future. 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 manufacturers capable of producing regulating valves for aircraft. The relevant North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) Code is 336413, Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing, with a size standard of 1,250 employees.

The government is interested in responses from 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.

How to respond to this market research

To participate in this market research, you must select the “ADD ME TO INTERESTED VENDORS” button on the original source portal. This action will register your interest with the 423rd SCMS Supply Chain Management Squadron.

Potential sources should be prepared to furnish all labor, materials, facilities, and equipment needed for the new manufacture of the item, including procurement of component parts, inspection, testing, preservation/packaging, and shipping to Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. You may also be responsible for supply chain management, logistics planning, forecasting, and addressing diminishing manufacturing sources.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Even though this is market research, provide clear and concise information about your company's capabilities. Detail your experience with similar manufacturing requirements, especially for aircraft parts or components with similar specifications.

Highlight your capacity for supply chain management, quality control, and adherence to defense manufacturing standards. If you have experience with the specific NSN or part number, or with T-38 aircraft components, be sure to mention it. Emphasize your ability to meet potential future delivery requirements to Tinker Air Force Base.

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 BiddingSimple

This guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Logistics Agency; the original posting controls.