Bell V22 X35

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation is conducting a sources sought market research for Bell V22 X35 components, seeking to determine if companies other than Bell (CAGE 97499) can manufacture or legitimately obtain specific National Item Identification Numbers (NIINs). This pre-solicitation notice is designed to explore potential alternative suppliers for 48 unique NSNs across multiple Federal Supply Class codes in aircraft parts and accessories. The agency requires potential suppliers to submit a Source Approval Request (SAR) through DoDSafe, which can be initiated by emailing dlaavnsmallbus@dla.mil with their CAGE code and NSN details. Importantly, this is not a formal solicitation and creates no contractual obligation, with responses being strictly voluntary. The market research period runs from April 21, 2025, to April 30, 2025, during which interested manufacturers can demonstrate their capability to produce these specialized aviation components.

Currently, Bell is the sole approved source for these components, and the DLA is specifically interested in identifying potential alternative manufacturers within the Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing sector (NAICS 336413). The sources sought notice covers miscellaneous aircraft accessories and components (PSC 1680), indicating a specialized procurement focused on military aviation equipment. No specific award value or budget range is disclosed in the document, and there are no set-aside designations for this opportunity. The procurement process requires government source approval prior to any potential contract award, meaning that even qualified manufacturers must undergo a rigorous vetting process. Potential suppliers must be prepared to demonstrate technical capabilities, manufacturing readiness, and compliance with complex military specifications to be considered as an alternative to the current sole source provider.