DLA Technical Compliance: Navigating First Article Testing (FAT)

Published: May 16, 2026

In the world of Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) contracting, technical compliance is the difference between a successful contract and a costly rejection. One of the most critical phases for new suppliers of mechanical parts is First Article Testing (FAT).

What is First Article Testing?

FAT is the process of testing a single unit (the "first article") from a production run to ensure it meets every technical requirement specified in the contract and its associated drawings. DLA uses FAT to mitigate risk, ensuring that a contractor can actually manufacture a part to the government's rigorous standards before full-scale production begins.

Government Testing vs. Contractor Testing

Before you bid, check whether FAT is "Government Tested" or "Contractor Tested."

• Government Tested: You ship the first article to a government facility (like a DLA test center) for evaluation. This typically takes longer (60-120 days) and involves less direct control.
• Contractor Tested: You perform the testing yourself or use an approved third-party lab. You then submit a FAT Report (FATR) to the DLA Contracting Officer for approval.

Common First Article Rejection Causes

1. Documentation Errors: The part might be perfect, but if your FATR is missing a measurement or uses the wrong units, it will be rejected.
2. Material Certification: Failing to provide traceable material mill certs is a frequent trap. Every alloy must be documented back to its origin.
3. Tolerance Slippage: Even being 0.001" out of spec can lead to a rejection in high-precision aerospace or vehicle components.

The Cost of FAT Failure

A FAT rejection is a serious performance issue. It can lead to contract termination for default, negative past performance ratings, and the forfeiture of testing costs. Understanding the technical data package (TDP) fully before manufacturing is the only way to ensure success.

Next Level

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