59--ELECTRON TUBE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA MARITIME.DLA MARITIME COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Fri, 23 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Maritime Columbus is seeking to acquire electron tubes under solicitation SPE7M127T0510. Electron tubes—also known as vacuum tubes—are electronic components that control electric current flow in a vacuum or gas-filled environment. These components are commonly used in high-power radio frequency applications, radar systems, communications equipment, and specialized military electronics where solid-state alternatives may not meet operational requirements.
The DLA Weapons Support activity typically sources items critical to maintaining weapon systems and related platforms across the armed services. In this case, the procurement falls under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 59, which covers electrical and electronic equipment components. DLA's role is to manage supply chains and ensure availability of spare and replacement parts for operational military readiness.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | DLA Maritime Columbus / DLA Weapons Support, Department of Defense |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE7M127T0510 |
| NAICS | 334419 — Other Electronic Component Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | None (see the solicitation) |
| Response deadline | October 23, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata (see the solicitation) |
Who can bid
This opportunity is not listed with a small business set-aside, meaning it is open to all responsible bidders regardless of size. However, small businesses in NAICS 334419 (Other Electronic Component Manufacturing) may still find competitive opportunities here, particularly if they hold relevant manufacturing capabilities or have experience producing electron tubes to military specifications.
To bid, your firm must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and should have any required DLA qualifications for supplying FSC 59 items. Companies holding Small Business status, Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), or HUBZone certifications should verify whether any socioeconomic credits apply, though the absence of a set-aside suggests full and open competition.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Electron tubes for defense applications typically must meet stringent military specifications (MIL-SPEC) or defense standards. Review the solicitation for exact technical parameters, testing requirements, and acceptance criteria. If your firm does not manufacture tubes in-house, subcontracting arrangements may be permissible—confirm this in the full document.
Verify your supply chain. Sources for specialized raw materials, precision glasswork, vacuum sealing capabilities, and specialized cathodes or anodes may be limited. Document your proven sources and lead times.
Pricing strategy. DLA procurements often emphasize total evaluated price including shipping and any required kitting or special packaging. Research DLA's historical pricing for comparable National Stock Numbers (NSNs) if available through FLIS or FPDS data. Consider whether your firm can offer advantages in delivery schedule or past performance.
Past performance and quality. DLA evaluates contractor responsibility through the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS). Strong ratings on prior component deliveries strengthen proposals. Maintain or pursue AS9100 or ISO 9001 certifications if applicable to your operations.
Packaging and marking. DLA contracts typically mandate military standard packaging and RFID-enabled labels. Factor these requirements into cost and operational planning.
Next steps
Access the full solicitation SPE7M127T0510 directly on SAM.gov to review complete specifications, delivery requirements, clauses, and submission instructions. Note the response deadline of October 23, 2026—allow adequate time for proposal preparation, internal review, and system submission. Given the ten-day window between posting and deadline, immediate action is advisable to assess fit and begin any needed vendor inquiries.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →