Grip Control

The Defense Logistics Agency Aviation is seeking four units of a Grip Assembly, Control (NSN 1680-01-263-0648) for F-16 aircraft through a competitive solicitation with specific manufacturing qualifications. The procurement is restricted to two qualified sources: Guardian Electric (CAGE 73949) and Essex Industries (CAGE 83533), with potential new contractors required to submit a comprehensive manufacturing qualification package. Potential bidders must demonstrate compliance with rigorous technical requirements, including ISO 9001-2015 certification, Buy American Act provisions, and unique item identification standards. The solicitation (SPRHA4-25-Q-0358) was posted on March 14, 2025, with quotations due by April 15, 2025, and a required delivery date of December 30, 2026. Evaluation will focus on manufacturing capabilities, technical compliance, and the ability to meet complex engineering and packaging specifications outlined in the attached government files.

This opportunity is a 100% small business set-aside with a firm-fixed price contract structure, involving three distinct Foreign Military Sales (FMS) cases: one unit for MO-D-SAH, one unit for TW-D-SAD, and two units for BA-D-SAB. The contract requires precise manufacturing of a pilots controller grip assembly with part number 16C1090-1, adhering to stringent military standards including MIL-STD-130 and MIL-STD-2000. Manufacturers must navigate complex packaging requirements specified in multiple government standards, including MIL-STD-2073-1 and MIL-STD-129. While the exact contract value is not explicitly stated, the solicitation indicates approximately $4,000 in qualification costs and a 180-day qualification completion timeline. The technical complexity, export control considerations, and specific manufacturing requirements suggest this is a high-precision contract for critical aircraft components.