Fuel Cell

The Defense Logistics Agency Aviation is seeking to procure nine fuel cells with National Stock Number 1560-01-322-9987 for F-16 aircraft. The solicitation (SPRHA4-25-R-0425) is specifically restricted to two qualified sources: Axillon (CAGE 56221) and Floats & Fuel Cells (CAGE 7Z8Q5), with potential additional contractors required to submit a comprehensive manufacturing qualification package. Key contract requirements include first article testing, with an evaluation cost of $15,000 for testing and engineering review, and strict compliance with military packaging standards and federal regulations. Contractors must provide detailed documentation including supply chain traceability and meet specific engineering data requirements. The proposal deadline is April 26, 2025, at 11:59 PM, with an estimated qualification process taking up to 730 days.

The solicitation does not have a specific small business set-aside, but falls under NAICS code 336413 with a small business size standard of 1,250 employees. The contract is rated as a priority order for national defense, emergency preparedness, and energy programs, with most deliveries scheduled for September 30, 2026. The procurement involves firm fixed pricing and requires adherence to complex technical specifications, including specific Lockheed Martin drawings and critical safety item management. Evaluation will include a thorough review of the manufacturer's ability to meet stringent military specifications, with potential testing costs up to $1.2 million for required wet test fixtures. The contract covers the manufacture of aircraft fuel cells, with detailed requirements for Item Unique Identifier (IUID) marking, export control compliance, and strict technical documentation standards.