Bid guide
How to bid on B-1B Transmission units for the Air Force
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Air Force is conducting market research to identify potential sources for the new manufacture of 46 transmission units for the B-1B aircraft. The specific part number is NF53302-03B and the National Stock Number (NSN) is 1680-01-142-7633RK.
This is a spares procurement effort, meaning the Air Force is looking to acquire new units, not repair existing ones. The estimated quantity ranges from a minimum of 12 to a maximum of 69 units. This is an opportunity for manufacturers to potentially supply critical components for military aircraft.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
Responses to this Sources Sought Synopsis are due by October 4, 2026. The official deadline is October 5, 2026, at 12:59 AM ET. All dates and times are listed in Central Standard Time, Chicago, USA.
It is important to note that this is a market research effort, not a request for proposal or a solicitation for a contract. The government does not intend to award a contract based on this notice, and no funds are available to compensate for information submitted. The information gathered will help the Air Force determine the best acquisition strategy for this requirement.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for businesses capable of manufacturing complex mechanical transmission units. The work involves furnishing all labor, materials, facilities, and equipment for new manufacture, including component procurement, inspection, testing, preservation, packaging, and shipping.
The North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) Code for this effort is 336413, which has a size standard of 1,250 employees. The government is interested in responses from all business types, 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 RFI
To respond to this market research effort, you must select the “ADD ME TO INTERESTED VENDORS” button on the portal. This is the primary method to be considered a participant in this market research.
There is no solicitation available at this time, and requests for a solicitation will not receive a response. The purpose is solely to gather information from potential sources.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When responding to a Sources Sought notice, clearly demonstrate your firm's capability to meet the requirements. Focus on your experience with similar manufacturing projects, your capacity for production, and your ability to manage supply chains for complex items.
Highlight any relevant certifications, quality control processes, and your ability to handle logistics, including preservation, packaging, and shipping to Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma. If your firm has experience with diminishing manufacturing sources or material shortage issues, mention your strategies for addressing these challenges. Ensure your response clearly states your business size and category.
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.