17--TOWBAR,AIRCRAFT
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Philadelphia, PA has issued a solicitation for new spares for Aircraft Towbars (Product Service Code 1730). This is a Critical Safety Item (CSI) requiring engineering source approval by Naval Air Systems Command. Only companies with prior approval are eligible for award, though new companies may submit a Source Approval Request. The due date for proposals has been extended to January 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
This procurement is for the manufacture and supply of aircraft towbar spares, designated as Critical Safety Items due to their crucial role in shipboard aircraft launch/recovery systems. The work involves adherence to specific drawings (e.g., 6532D787, Revision T) and detailed quality assurance procedures. Key requirements include:
- Engineering Source Approval: Mandatory for eligibility; detailed documentation required for new manufacturers.
- First Article Testing (FAT): Required for one unit, uncoated, with Government witness. The contractor must provide facilities, personnel, and documentation for testing.
- Rigorous Quality Assurance: Includes 100% inspection of critical/major characteristics, plating, hardness, and non-destructive testing (NDT). Interim and final inspections require notification to NAWCADLKE QA.
- Traceability: Contractors must develop a system for individual piece part identification.
- Drawing Updates: Drawing Update Sheet TDR 25-10043 is incorporated and applicable, replacing TDR 25-10103.
Key Requirements & Eligibility
Offerors must demonstrate compliance with extensive quality and manufacturing standards, including ISO 9001 or equivalent. Companies performing NDT must be NADCAP accredited or accredited by an ISO 17025-satisfying laboratory. The solicitation details specific data requirements for First Article Test units and final inspection, covering material properties, heat treatment, magnetic particle inspection, and dimensional checks.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Solicitation
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Proposal Due: January 15, 2026, 2:00 PM EST
- Published: May 4, 2026 (original), with amendment posted January 6, 2026
Additional Notes
Offerors requesting a waiver of First Article Approval Requirements must submit two prices (with and without waiver) and provide evidence of prior production within three years at the same facility. Contact THOMAS.KUHNLE@DLA.MIL for inquiries.