Request for Interested Manufacturers for the KC-135 Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats
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 Warner Robins, GA, is conducting a Sources Sought to identify interested manufacturers for KC-135 Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats (NSNs 1680006850300MH, 1680006850301MH; PNs 77226-407, 77226-408). This market research aims to understand current market capabilities and potential solutions, despite the government's intent to award a sole source contract to Mag Aerospace Industries Inc. DBA. Responses are due by April 24, 2026.
Scope of Work
This exploratory effort seeks detailed information from qualified aircraft seat manufacturers to understand market capabilities, identify technological advancements, and discover solutions to enhance aircrew safety, ergonomics, and long-term operational effectiveness for the KC-135 Stratotanker fleet. Key considerations for the Pilot and Co-pilot seats include:
- Enhanced ergonomics for mitigating fatigue during long-duration flights.
- Improved crashworthiness, meeting rigorous military safety standards.
- Seamless integration with the existing cockpit architecture and controls.
- Ease of maintainability within a military operational context.
- Overall compatibility with military operational requirements, including the use of helmets and night vision goggles (NVGs).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research (with intent for sole source)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 24, 2026
- Published: April 7, 2026
Impediment to Competition & Intent
The previous Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Mag Aerospace Industries Inc. DBA (CAGE: 92824), maintains configuration control, and the Government either lacks or has limited rights to technical data/drawings. Consequently, Mag Aerospace is the only known source with the necessary knowledge and data to produce these items. The DLA/AWB Contracting Office intends to award a sole source contract to Mag Aerospace under FAR 6.302-1, Only One Responsible Source.
Action Item
All interested parties capable of manufacturing these seats should identify their interest and capabilities by responding via email to komkit.seshompo.1@us.af.mil no later than April 24, 2026.
Additional Notes
This Sources Sought Synopsis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a request for proposal or a commitment by the government to award a contract. Responses are voluntary and will not be compensated.