C130J-30 FINLETS
ID: FA850425SFINLETSType: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8504 AFLCMC WLNKAROBINS AFB, GA, 31098-1670, USA

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/1ca9410aaa7646fda8fdac2775739da5/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), is seeking information regarding the potential production of drag-reducing finlets for the C-130J-30 aircraft. The objective of this Request for Information (RFI) is to explore the feasibility and benefits of finlet technology in enhancing the aircraft's aerodynamic performance, which includes reducing drag, improving fuel efficiency, and stabilizing the aircraft. The C-130J-30 plays a crucial role in mission operations both domestically and internationally, making these enhancements significant for operational effectiveness. Interested manufacturers are invited to submit detailed information on technical feasibility, production capabilities, and design support by August 29, 2025, with all submissions to be sent electronically. For further inquiries, contact Michael Corley at michael.corley.8@us.af.mil or William "Russ" Odom at william.odom.2@us.af.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Michael Corley
    michael.corley.8@us.af.mil
    William "Russ" Odom
    william.odom.2@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Finlets RTM to RFI Template.xlsx
    The document pertains to a Request for Information (RFI) for the Finlets program, indicating a structured process for collecting input on relevant questions and comments related to specific sections of the proposal. It includes fields for identifying RFI numbers, questions, page numbers, and section numbers, signifying an organized approach to clarifying details within the RFI framework. The primary purpose is to optimize the exchange of information to refine project objectives and requirements, facilitating informed participation in subsequent proposals or grants. This reflects standard protocol in federal and local government solicitations, emphasizing transparency and stakeholder engagement in the procurement process. Overall, the document serves as a tool to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of submissions related to the Finlets initiative.
    RFI for industry FINLETS.docx
    The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) concerning the production of drag-reducing finlets for the C-130J-30 aircraft. The objective is to investigate the feasibility and benefits of finlets in enhancing aerodynamic performance by reducing drag, improving fuel efficiency, and stabilizing the aircraft. The RFI invites manufacturers to submit detailed information about the technical feasibility, structural integration, performance improvements, costs, and company experience relevant to designing and implementing finlets. It seeks specific data on materials, part specifications, production capabilities, quality control, and design support. Interested parties are encouraged to provide a sample finlet design and optional sustainability considerations. Responses are due by August 29, 2025, and should be submitted electronically. The RFI emphasizes that this request is solely for information purposes and does not imply any potential contract or purchase commitment from the AFLCMC. All submissions will remain confidential and evaluated strictly by the government team.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    C130J-30 FINLETS
    Currently viewing
    Sources Sought
    Similar Opportunities
    C-130J LONGERON ASSEMBLY, FUSELAGE
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Department of the Air Force, is soliciting quotes for the procurement of a Longerons Assembly, Fuselage, Part Number 342986-6L, with a quantity of one unit required. This procurement is critical due to its urgency related to flight and safety deficiencies, necessitating delivery to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, by January 30, 2026. The opportunity is set aside for small businesses under the NAICS code 336412, and interested vendors must submit their quotes by December 29, 2025, while also adhering to specific instructions for accessing technical drawings and compliance with military packaging standards. For further inquiries, potential bidders can contact Brad Wood at bradley.wood.11@us.af.mil or Arthur Gumushyan at arthur.gumushyan@us.af.mil.
    AIRCRAFT, HERCULES, C-130; CONTROL ASSEMBLY, DOOR
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Aviation), is seeking proposals for the procurement of a Control Assembly for the Hercules C-130 aircraft, specifically identified by NSN 1560-01-136-0153. The contract will be for an Indefinite Quantity with an estimated annual requirement of 10 units over a five-year period, with no options for extension. This procurement is classified as unrestricted and is critical for maintaining operational capabilities, although it is not categorized as a Critical Safety Item. Interested vendors must submit their proposals by fax and are encouraged to review the solicitation, which will be available on the DLA Internet Bid Board System around November 13, 2026. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact Jenier Mitchell at jenier.mitchell@dla.mil or by phone at 804-659-6388.
    GEARBOX,LANDING
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation at Ogden, Utah, is soliciting proposals for three units of the Gearbox, Landing (NSN: 1620-00-617-9123) specifically for C-130 aircraft, primarily aimed at Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers. The procurement emphasizes compliance with AS9100 quality standards, the Buy American Act, and various military standards for packaging and marking, including MIL-STD-130 and MIL-STD-2073-1E. This opportunity is critical for maintaining the operational readiness of military aircraft and ensuring compliance with national defense requirements. Interested contractors must submit their proposals by December 17, 2025, and can reach out to Richard Dunlap at richard.dunlap.2@us.af.mil or call 385-591-8306 for further information.
    Airlift Efficiency Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force's Operational Energy Office, is seeking innovative solutions through a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) aimed at enhancing airlift efficiencies for military and commercial transport aircraft. The solicitation invites proposals for technologies that may include new designs or adaptations of existing systems, particularly focusing on dual-use propulsion systems with thrust capabilities between 35,000-50,000 lbs, which could benefit aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster and next-generation blended wing body designs. This initiative is critical for addressing energy demands and logistics in contested environments, with a market opportunity projected at $35-40 billion until 2045. Interested parties must submit solution briefs by March 13, 2025, and can contact Capt Madison Tikalsky at madison.tikalsky.1@us.af.mil or Lisa Pendragon at lisa.pendragon@us.af.mil for further information.
    REQUEST FOR INFORMATION - Large Caliber Penetrators
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to identify industry capabilities for developing a Large Caliber Penetrator, specifically focusing on maturing a tailkit (TK) design, development, and flight testing to demonstrate system accuracy. The initiative aims to gather insights into technological, manufacturing, and business capabilities within the industrial base to inform the development of a material solution that meets operational objectives. This procurement is critical for enhancing the USAF's munitions capabilities, particularly in GPS-denied environments, and involves the production of three to five prototypes for flight testing. Interested vendors are encouraged to submit white papers detailing their capabilities by December 12, 2025, with questions due by November 25, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Mandi Johnson at mandi.johnson.4@us.af.mil or Christy Cross at christy.cross.2@us.af.mil.
    SENSING ELEMENT, FIR / NSN 6340-01-471-3116 / C130 AIRCRAFT
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Aviation), is seeking to establish an Indefinite Quantity Contract (IQC) for the procurement of the Sensing Element, FIR (NSN 6340-01-471-3116) specifically for the C130 aircraft. This contract will cover a five-year base period with an estimated annual quantity of 40 units, which are critical components but not classified as Critical Safety Items. Interested contractors must submit a Source Approval Request (SAR) to be considered, as the DLA does not possess technical data for this part, and the original equipment manufacturer is Lockheed Martin. Proposals are due within 45 days of the notice publication, with the solicitation expected to be issued on December 10, 2025. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Chris Rose at Christopher.Rose@dla.mil or Jeremy Prince at Jeremy.Prince@dla.mil.
    J85 Cooler, Lubricating
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency, is seeking proposals for the procurement of the J85 Cooler, Lubricating, with an estimated quantity ranging from 868 to 5,211 units. This critical safety item is essential for aircraft engine cooling systems and is categorized under the NAICS code 336412, specifically for Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing. The government intends to negotiate with limited sources, primarily Honeywell International, Inc., and emphasizes the importance of technical capability and past performance in the selection process. Interested parties must submit their proposals by July 31, 2023, and can direct inquiries to Jeremy Bryant at jeremy.bryant@us.af.mil or by phone at 405-855-7112.
    Bulkhead Assembly, C-130
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking proposals for the procurement of a Bulkhead Assembly for the C-130 aircraft, identified by Part Number 375974-7. This solicitation is a total small business set-aside and addresses an urgent requirement related to flight and safety deficiency hazards, with delivery expected at Robins AFB, Georgia, on or before January 19, 2026. Interested vendors must submit their quotes via email by December 29, 2025, and adhere to specific packaging and transportation requirements outlined in the associated documents. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact Nicole Greenwood at nicole.greenwood.2@us.af.mil or Arthur Gumushyan at arthur.gumushyan@us.af.mil.
    PARTS KIT, SERVO CYL | 06F | C-130
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Aviation), is seeking qualified small businesses to provide a Parts Kit for the Servo Cylinder associated with the C-130 aircraft. This procurement involves an indefinite quantity contract (IQC) for a base period of five years, with an estimated annual requirement of 160 units, to be delivered within 300 days after receipt of order. The parts are critical for maintaining aircraft hydraulic systems, ensuring operational readiness and safety. Interested vendors must be certified by the Department of Defense to access the necessary technical data and can find the solicitation on the DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) around November 19, 2025; inquiries can be directed to Ryan Loeffelholz at ryan.loeffelholz@dla.mil or by phone at 804-279-1452.
    C130J Digital Heads Up Display Enhanced Vision System Demonstration
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force, is seeking to procure a T-2 demonstration of an Enhanced Vision System (EVS) for the C-130J Digital Heads-Up Display (DHUD) under a delivery order against the GSA OASIS IDIQ contract. This procurement aims to enhance operational capabilities during the Air National Guard's firefighting season by demonstrating the EVS in challenging weather conditions such as fog, smoke, and heavy rain. The contract, valued at approximately $10 million over 14 months, has been justified under FAR 16.505(b)(2)(i)(B), indicating that only Raytheon Technologies' Collins division can meet the unique requirements due to their extensive experience and compatibility with existing systems. Interested parties can contact Kortney M. Coalt at kortney.coalt@us.af.mil or Justin Stanfill at justin.stanfill@us.af.mil for further information.