DLA TLS/SOE
Special Operational Equipment

How authorized government customers can procure ABSI equipment and related incidental services through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support Tailored Logistics Support (TLS) program for Special Operational Equipment (SOE).

What the SOE TLS Program Is

The SOE TLS program lets authorized customers order commercial, part‑numbered items within the scope of the contract. DLA solicits multiple prime vendors to compete on price and delivery for each request—driving best value and rapid fulfillment.
Program scope includes a wide range of equipment areas such as tactical gear, lifesaving/search and rescue, protective equipment, diving and underwater tools, air crew support and flight deck safety items, load‑carrying equipment, survival kits, mountain/climbing gear, and other special operational equipment (final scope is determined by the DLA Contracting Officer).

How This Applies to ABSI Products & Services

ABSI designs and manufactures U.S.-made aerial target systems and Remote‑Controlled Model Aircraft (RCMA) with part numbers suitable for TLS ordering. When determined to be within scope by the DLA Contracting Officer, ABSI systems may be purchased via SOE TLS with competition among prime vendors.

Incidental services associated with equipment—such as manufacturer installation/assembly, product training, sizing, calibration, or synchronization—can be included on the same order when necessary to support the items procured. Pure service‑only orders are not supported under SOE TLS. For larger or standalone services (e.g., extended training, advisory support), ABSI recommends using GSA OASIS or GSA PSS.

Eligible Customers

Authorized DoD activities and other federal entities (e.g., FEMA) may use SOE TLS to buy commercial equipment. The program services customers worldwide using both commercial and government transportation.

How Ordering Works (Step‑by‑Step)

Register your organization and designate a Finance Office Point of Contact (FOPOC). Each individual who will place orders completes one‑time registration and receives an SOE TLSP Account Number and Excel order template.
Prepare an UNFUNDED Customer Order Request using the Excel template (commercial manufacturer and part number, description, quantities, DoDAACs, requested delivery, and any incidental services as a separate line). Submit to SOEOrders@dla.mil.
DLA conducts scope review and issues an RFQ to multiple SOE prime vendors. Typical timeline to receive pricing is ~21 business days (longer near fiscal year end).
DLA returns a Price Acknowledgement Spreadsheet showing best‑value selections, pricing, and lead times. Your registered FOPOC completes and returns the spreadsheet with funding.
Fund the order via a MILS‑like document number or a DD Form 448 MIPR (or as otherwise directed). Effective June 1, 2025, material orders, performance, receipt, and acceptance leverage G‑Invoicing (Treasury 7600 series) per DLA guidance.
Acknowledge receipt in FedMall using the Material Receipt Acknowledgement (MRA) process. Coordinate delivery, installation, and any approved incidental services.

Typical Items & Services (Mapped to ABSI Capabilities)

Examples of requirements that can be structured for SOE TLS when within scope:

ABSI aerial target systems and RCMA platforms (commercial, part‑numbered configurations).
Associated ground control components, launch/handling accessories, and consumables.
Manufacturer‑provided setup/assembly and product familiarization training as incidental services tied to the equipment line items.
Calibration/synchronization of sensors or flight control components delivered with the equipment.

Note: The Contracting Officer makes final scope determinations. If an order is primarily for services (e.g., standalone training packages), DLA may reject that line under SOE TLS; in those cases, ABSI can route you to GSA OASIS or GSA PSS.

Timing, Year‑End Deadlines & Lead Times

DLA guidance notes an estimated ~21 business days from receipt of a valid Customer Order Request to pricing. During Q4, increased volume may extend timelines. DLA also posts specific fiscal year order and funding deadlines; align your actions to those dates to avoid returns or re‑submission under the next fiscal year.

Practical Tips to Speed Your Order

Ensure FOPOC registration is active before your first submission; orders will hard‑stop without a registered FOPOC.
Submit brand/model part numbers with manufacturer specification sheets or links in the template’s Additional Information field.
Include any incidental services as separate line items on the same order (e.g., installation, product training).
Use clear, concise descriptions and intended use; more detail often reduces back‑and‑forth scope checks.
Coordinate early on Buy American/Berry compliance requirements when applicable.

How ABSI Helps You Use SOE TLS

Registration & FOPOC Setup:
We walk your team through DLA’s customer registration and FOPOC designation steps.
Order Structuring:
We help translate requirements into part‑numbered line items with the right supporting specs and incidental services.
Market Research & Alternatives:
We assist with specification packages so DLA can solicit competitive quotes efficiently.
Funding & G‑Invoicing Readiness:
We coordinate with your FOPOC to complete the Price Acknowledgement and funding steps.
Delivery & MRA:
We support delivery coordination and help your team complete Material Receipt Acknowledgements in FedMall.

Get in Touch

Ready to purchase ABSI equipment via DLA SOE TLS—or need help becoming an authorized user? Our contracts team will guide you through registration, FOPOC setup, and order preparation so you can accelerate your first purchase.

DLA TLS/SOE Special Operational Equipment