NSN 1560-01-143-8041, AIRCRAFT STRUCTURAL SUPPORT COMPONENT, WSDC: 05F, AIRCRAFT, STRATOLIFTER C/KC

The Aviation Source Approval and Management Handbook (March 16, 2011) provides comprehensive guidance and standardized procedures for managing and approving manufacturing and Repair, Overhaul, Modification, and Maintenance (ROMM) sources for aviation Critical Safety Items (CSIs) and Critical Application Items (CAIs). Published under the Joint Aeronautical Commanders’ Group (JACG), this handbook implements federal laws and military instructions designed to maintain flight airworthiness while promoting full and open competition. The handbook outlines the specific responsibilities of the Engineering Support Activity (ESA) and the procuring activity in evaluating Source Approval Requests (SARs). It defines the criteria for various approved sources, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), licensed distributors, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) holders. Additionally, the document details the multi-step technical, engineering, and quality assurance reviews required to evaluate alternate suppliers across four distinct SAR categories. Furthermore, the handbook establishes protocols for source reciprocity among military branches, the utilization of surplus materials, and the strict conditions under which organic government depots may perform one-time or routine manufacturing of critical parts. It also governs complex technical processes like reverse engineering, outlining the necessary business case analyses and engineering reviews required to mitigate safety risks when technical data is unavailable.

This document outlines the updated submission procedures for Source Approval Requests (SAR) managed by DLA Aviation. For National Stock Numbers (NSNs) with active solicitations, SARs must be submitted directly to the listed buyer. For NSNs without open solicitations, physical CD submissions are no longer accepted; instead, vendors must request a secure digital drop-off link via DoD SAFE by emailing dlaavnsmallbus@dla.mil with their CAGE code, NSN, and email address. SARs will not be evaluated for fully competitive items (AMSC code "G") or for items with low demand that are not cost-effective to review. Prospective suppliers are advised to consult the DLA Supplier Requirements Visibility Application to forecast demand, and the PUB LOG FLIS database to identify managing military services and approved sources. The SAR review process can exceed 180 days from receipt, and applicants will receive formal written notification of the final decision.