Request for Interested Manufacturers for the KC-135 Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats

Sources Sought Synopsis

(Request for Interested Manufacturers)

FROM: Komkit Seshompo/410/SCMS/GULB

TO: DLA Aviation Procurement Operations at Warner Robins (SPRWA1)

LOCATION: Robins AFB, GA 31098-1813

FBO Post Title: Request for Interested Manufacturers for the KC-135 Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats. The National Stock Number (NSN) and Part Number (PN) are as follows:

NSNs

Nouns

Part Numbers

1680006850300MH

Pilot Seat

77226-407

1680006850301MH

Co-pilot Seat

77226-408

SUBJECT:

Market research is being conducted to identify potential sources that may possess the expertise, capabilities, and experience to meet the requirements for qualification and production of the following items: Pseudo: PW4HBMAY15 for KC-135 Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats.

ITEM DESCRIPTION:

The primary purpose of this Sources Sought Synopsis is to gather detailed information from qualified aircraft seat manufacturers. It's an exploratory effort designed to:

• Understand current market capabilities for specialized cockpit seating.
• Identify technological advancements in this field.
• Discover potential solutions that can enhance aircrew safety, ergonomics, and long-term operational effectiveness within the KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.

The information collected will serve to inform potential future acquisition strategies and help the procuring organization make well-informed decisions. The KC-135 Stratotanker fleet executes critical missions such as aerial refueling, airlift, or other specialized military operations. It emphasizes that the comfort, safety, and operational efficiency of the air crews are paramount because the KC-135 Stratotanker fleet is a vital asset.

The scope of interest is specifically on the Pilot and Co-pilot seats, which are tailored for the unique cockpit environment of the KC-135. Key considerations highlighted in the description include:

• Enhanced ergonomics, especially for mitigating fatigue during long-duration flights.
• Improved crashworthiness, meeting rigorous military safety standards.
• Seamless integration with the existing cockpit architecture and controls.
• Ease of maintainability within a military operational context.
• Overall compatibility with military operational requirements, including the use of helmets, and night vision goggles (NVGs).

IMPEDIMENT TO COMPETITION:

The previous original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for these items was Mag Aerospace Industries Inc. DBA (CAGE: 92824), which maintains its configuration by part number and configuration control. The Government either does not own any data/drawings/schematics or has limited rights which indicate an inability to release data for competitive solicitation.  As a result, Mag Aerospace Industries Inc. DBA is the only known source with adequate knowledge of manufacturing the KC135 Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats and the performance requirements. They have possession of the required technical data and capabilities needed to produce these items and to ensure compatibility of the equipment.  

INTEREST:

The DLA/AWB Contracting Office intends to award a sole source contract for the manufacture of the Aircraft Pilot and Co-pilot Seats in support of the KC-135 Program. All interested parties may identify their interest and capability by response via email to komkit.seshompo.1@us.af.mil no later than 24 APR, 2026.          

The Government intends to procure these items using Other Than Full and Open Competition as prescribed by FAR 6.302-1, Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements.

DISCLAIMER:

The Sources Sought Synopsis is for informational purposes only. This is not a request for proposal. It does not constitute a solicitation and shall not be construed as a commitment by the government. Responses in any form are not offers, and the government is under no obligation to award a contract as a result of this announcement. No funds are available to pay for preparation of responses to this announcement. Any information submitted by respondents to this technical description is strictly voluntary.