U.S. Government SAR Approvals

WFL’s Source Approval Request (SAR) services simplify the approval process across four SAR categories. We expertly manage the Change Process per MIL-HDBK-61A and Configuration Management Guidance, using a detailed checklist for each category. Our current SAR examples showcase our efficiency and success in securing approvals.

WFL Source Approval Request Services

Expertise in Navigating the SAR Process

• A Source Approval Request package is
  • an assembly of information required of a prospective new supplier of a Critical/Weapon System Item (NSN) 
  • A package that contains all technical data needed to demonstrate that the prospective contractor can competently manufacture the Critical/Weapon System Item to the same level of quality or better than the system prime contractor, major system contractor, or initial approved source (OEM)
• WFL has the knowledge and experience to receive Government SAR approvals as well as expedited approvals, under certain circumstances.
• We have a process that has been proven and is repeatable, whether you are a manufacturer that wants approval or is looking for a partner that can be approved to manufacture the part.
• The SAR process is one of the most expensive, time-consuming, and daunting processes within the DoD. We know how to get it done quickly and with the least amount of expense.
• To successfully become an Approved Source through either the Alternate Offer or Source Approval Request process, the onus is on the replacement item’s supplier to document and demonstrate that their product is equal to or better than the currently approved item that DLA is buying.  WFL excels at that!

The Four Source Approval Request Categories

Understanding the SAR Categories

SAR Category I -Actual Item: These SARs are received from suppliers who have manufactured or performed Repair, Overhaul, Maintenance, and Modification (ROMM) on the exact item on the OEM technical data for the prime contractor, OEM, another service, or a civil sector under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) identically. The item will be produced and evaluated against the Engineering Support Activity (ESA) approved technical data package.

SAR Category II-Similar Item: These SARs are received from suppliers who have not previously manufactured, repaired, or overhauled the subject item but have manufactured or performed ROMM on items similar in complexity, design, criticality, manufacturing/repair/overhaul processes, materials, and  application for the:

• Prime Contractor, OEM, or another service using OEM data.
• The civil sector under FAA PMA is based identically. The item will be produced and evaluated against the ESA’s approved technical data package.

SAR Category III-New Manufacturer of Item: This category covers offers that do not meet Category I or II criteria but have the OEM’s technical data and intend to produce to the ESA-approved technical data package.

SAR Category IV-Alternate Item: These are SARs received from offers that propose an alternate part equivalent to the OEM part. Alternate items may only be considered when the Sourcing Handbook Section 1.9 criteria are met. Reengineering is the creation of an alternative design or manufacturing process and should be addressed via Engineering.

Change Process and Configuration Management Guidance

Overview of MIL-HDBK-61A and SAR Evaluation

MIL-HDBK-61A outlines the Change Process for managing modifications to Critical/Weapon System Items, ensuring systematic review and approval. Configuration Management Guidance ensures the integrity and consistency of technical data throughout a product’s lifecycle.

NOTE:  DLA will receive Reverse Engineering Approval from Engineering Support Activity before they evaluate CAT IV SARs.