Hill Air Force Base has been identified as the designated recipient for a significant federal contract to supply critical spur gears, an estimated $560,000 procurement for military aircraft, BidLink reported.
The DLA Weapon System Support has issued a formal solicitation for these essential components. The contract aims to secure 407 units of a highly specialized 42-spline spur gear, which plays a vital role in the operational readiness and maintenance of three different types of military aircraft: the F-15 fighter jet, the E-3 Sentry airborne early warning and control aircraft, and the T-38 Talon trainer jet. This procurement directly supports the robust defense infrastructure centered at Hill Air Force Base, a major employer and economic engine for Ogden and the wider Northern Utah region.
Each spur gear is meticulously specified, identified by National Stock Number (NSN) 3020-00-888-0130. Crafted from a durable steel composite 4620, these components are designed for precision and resilience. The gears measure 3.1 inches by 0.25 inches, indicating their precise engineering for complex mechanical systems. The manufacturer part number associated with this specific component is Process Gear 3-51145-1, underscoring the exact requirements for production.
The estimated value of this contract, approximately $560,000, is based on past procurement history pricing for similar items. This figure reflects the significant investment required to maintain advanced military aircraft fleets.
Companies interested in bidding for this contract must submit their offers by November 30, 2026. The DLA Weapon System Support has outlined stringent requirements for potential contractors to ensure the highest standards of quality and reliability. Bidders are mandated to obtain Source Approval, a comprehensive process that verifies a company's capability and adherence to the necessary manufacturing and quality control standards for producing such critical defense components. Additionally, a single First Article Test (FAT) item is required, providing the military with an opportunity to rigorously inspect and approve an initial production sample before the full order proceeds.
Delivery timelines for the spur gears are specified to align with military operational needs and testing protocols. Successful bidders are expected to deliver the components within 420 days if a First Article Test item is provided and approved. If a FAT item is not part of the initial submission, the delivery window extends to 630 days. These timelines highlight the importance of timely and precise manufacturing in supporting defense logistics.
Historical data indicates that the last company to supply these particular spur gears to the military was Mid-America Aerotech. That company previously fulfilled an order for 434 units, with each gear purchased at a price of $1,397.84.
Notably, technical data for this specific item is publicly available. This accessibility is a strategic move by the DLA Weapon System Support, as it aims to facilitate greater competition among manufacturers. By providing necessary technical specifications, the solicitation opens the door for new companies to compete for the contract, potentially broadening the industrial base capable of supplying essential components to facilities like Hill Air Force Base and supporting national defense capabilities from Northern Utah.
