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 is soliciting proposals for Aircraft Towbars, classified as a Critical Safety Item (CSI) for crucial shipboard aircraft launch and recovery systems. This is a NEW SPARES requirement. Only companies with engineering source approval by the Naval Air Systems Command are eligible for award. Unapproved companies may submit a Source Approval Request (SAR) by the solicitation's closing date.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for the manufacture, testing, and inspection of aircraft towbars (P/N 6532D787, Revision T) and related components. This includes adherence to MIL-STD-130 for markings, specific sampling rates (ANSI Z1.4, General Inspection Level II), and 100% inspection for critical characteristics, plating, hardness, and non-destructive testing. The contractor is responsible for all manufacturing aids.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Solicitation (Competitive Acquisition)
- Set-Aside: None
- Response Due: May 29, 2026, 6:00 PM EST
- Published: May 4, 2026
- Notice ID: 1d48df1c9546480daa8ce691991c0578
Key Requirements
This opportunity involves stringent quality assurance and inspection protocols.
- Source Approval: Mandatory engineering source approval by Naval Air Systems Command. SARs must include detailed documentation (configuration drawings, process sheets, purchase orders, comparative analysis, inspection methods) and be submitted by the closing date.
- First Article Testing (FAT): Required for one uncoated unit, with government evaluation. The contractor must provide facilities, personnel, and documentation, and notify the PCO, ACO, and QAR 14 days prior to testing. A FAT report is due within 15 days of testing.
- Waiver of FAT: Possible for offerors who previously supplied identical, accepted articles within three years from the same production location, with a required certification. Offerors must submit two prices (with/without FAT).
- Inspections: Interim inspections are required for P/N 6532B068-1 (Pin-Pivot Restraint and Tow Bar Assembly - CSI). NAWCADLKE QA representatives may conduct surveillance and must be notified 14 working days prior to final inspection and 7 working days prior to interim inspections.
- Records: All ALRE CSI/CAI manufacturing and inspection/test records must be maintained for seven years.
Additional Notes
An amendment replaced Drawing Update Sheet TDR 25-10103 with TDR 25-10043, which is now applicable. No drawings are available for this solicitation; offerors must rely on provided specifications. Contact THOMAS.KUHNLE@DLA.MIL for inquiries.