Industry Contracting Guide
Government Contracts for Aerospace
Federal aerospace obligations cluster around aircraft production, sustainment, and space systems. Tier-1 OEMs flow billions in subcontracts annually to AS9100-certified small businesses.
Industry snapshot
- Average contract size
- $100K–$100M+
- Common certifications
- AS9100 · ITAR · Nadcap
Common government buyers
- Department of the Air Force (Air Force)
Air and space operations (covers Air Force and Space Force)
- Department of the Navy (Navy)
Maritime power projection and amphibious operations
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Aeronautics, space exploration, and science
Typical contract types
- FFP production
- Cost-plus R&D
- IDIQ sustainment
Challenges to expect
- AS9100 certification
- DFARS specialty metals
- DPAS rating priority
Where the opportunities are right now
- F-35 global supply chain
- B-21 production ramp
- Commercial Crew and Artemis
Most relevant NAICS codes
- NAICS 336411 — Aircraft Manufacturing
- NAICS 336412 — Aircraft Engine & Engine Parts
- NAICS 336414 — Guided Missile & Space Vehicle Manufacturing
States with the most aerospace contracting activity
- California — ~$73.5B annual
- Texas — ~$53.6B annual
- Ohio — ~$13.4B annual
FAQs
- What agencies buy the most aerospace services?
- Top federal buyers for aerospace include Department of the Air Force, Department of the Navy, National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
- What is the typical contract size in aerospace?
- Average federal contract size in aerospace ranges $100K–$100M+, with the largest awards typically flowing through IDIQ MATOC pools and BPAs.
- Which NAICS codes apply to aerospace?
- The most relevant NAICS codes are 336411 (Aircraft Manufacturing); 336412 (Aircraft Engine & Engine Parts); 336414 (Guided Missile & Space Vehicle Manufacturing).
- What certifications matter most in aerospace contracting?
- Common gating certifications include AS9100, ITAR, Nadcap. Set-aside certifications (8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB) layer on top for small businesses.
- What are the biggest challenges for new entrants?
- AS9100 certification; DFARS specialty metals; DPAS rating priority. These are surmountable but should be priced into your B&P investment.