59--BACKPLANE ASSY
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS MECHANICSBURG.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT MECH · Response deadline: Mon, 16 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Department of the Navy, through NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support (Mechanicsburg), is soliciting offers for a backplane assembly. This falls under Federal Supply Classification 59—Electrical and Electronic Equipment Components. Backplane assemblies are rigid circuit boards that provide electrical interconnections between other boards or modules in electronic systems, commonly used in military computing, communications, and weapons systems.
NAICS 334412 corresponds to "Bare Printed Circuit Board Manufacturing." Firms in this industry manufacture printed circuit boards without inserted electronic components, including backplanes, which serve as the structural and electrical backbone of complex electronic assemblies. This type of work requires precision manufacturing capabilities, typically involving multilayer fabrication, controlled impedance, and adherence to stringent military specifications.
Small businesses should note this is not a small business set-aside—it is a full and open competition. All responsible sources, including large businesses, may submit offers.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Navy, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support (Mechanicsburg) |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0010426QEJ29 |
| NAICS | 334412 |
| Set-aside | None (full and open) |
| Response deadline | November 16, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern |
| Place of performance | see the solicitation |
Who can bid
Any responsible offeror capable of manufacturing bare printed circuit boards to military specifications may bid. Given the full and open competition, small businesses will compete directly with large manufacturers.
Eligible bidders likely need:
- ITAR registration (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), as this involves defense electronics
- MIL-PRF-55110 or MIL-PRF-31032 certification, or equivalent qualification to produce printed wiring boards for military applications
- QMS certification (ISO 9001, AS9100, or equivalent) typically required for defense supply
- Navy Qualified Manufacturer List (QML) status, or ability to obtain it; see the solicitation for specific qualification requirements
Small businesses without existing Navy backplane experience should carefully assess whether they meet qualification requirements before investing bid preparation resources.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements precisely. Backplane assemblies for naval systems typically require exacting specifications for layer count, material (often high-Tg FR-4 or polyimide), impedance control, and thermal management. Request the full technical data package through SAM.gov to evaluate manufacturability against your equipment capabilities.
Verify qualification status early. NAVSUP WSS typically requires suppliers to be on the Qualified Products List or meet specific military performance specifications. Contact the contracting officer immediately if you're uncertain about qualification requirements or need to initiate qualification testing—this process can extend beyond the response deadline.
Compete on total evaluated price. In full and open competitions for standard industrial items, price typically carries substantial weight. Analyze your material costs, yield rates, and overhead carefully. Consider whether teaming with an established defense electronics manufacturer strengthens your position.
Demonstrate delivery reliability. NAVSUP WSS maintains weapon system readiness—late deliveries directly impact fleet operations. Highlight your on-time delivery history, production capacity, and any past performance with Defense Logistics Agency or military customers.
Address obsolescence and lifecycle support. Naval systems operate for decades; indicate your ability to support long-term production and provide Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) planning.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N0010426QEJ29. The posted notice provides limited information; technical specifications, packaging requirements, delivery schedules, and exact quantities appear only in the complete solicitation package.
Note the deadline carefully: Responses are due November 16, 2026 at 4:30 PM Eastern Time. Allow adequate time for SAM.gov registration verification, any required qualification inquiries, and proposal preparation.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →