Navigating First Article Testing (FAT) in DLA Contracting

In the landscape of Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) procurement, certain National Stock Numbers (NSNs) require an additional layer of verification before full-scale production begins. This process is known as First Article Testing (FAT). Understanding the mechanics of FAT is crucial for industrial contractors to ensure technical compliance and maintain profitability.

What is First Article Testing?

FAT is a requirement used to verify that a contractor can produce an item that meets all technical requirements specified in the contract. It typically involves producing a small quantity of the item (the "first article") and subjecting it to rigorous testing against military specifications or drawings.

Government FAT vs. Contractor FAT

Contracts will specify whether the testing is Government-witnessed/performed or Contractor-performed.

Contractor FAT: The contractor is responsible for performing the tests and submitting a detailed FAT report to the government for approval.
Government FAT: The contractor ships the first article to a government facility (often a DLA lab or a military depot) where government technicians perform the verification.

Strategic Pricing Considerations

Bidding on an NSN with a FAT requirement requires specialized pricing. Contractors must account for:

The cost of the test units (which are often destroyed during testing).
Laboratory fees (if using 3rd party labs).
Extended lead times (FAT approval can take 60-120 days).
In-house labor for documentation and testing setup.

Next Level

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