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Adapter, Hellfire Missile (Upper) and Adapter, Hellfire Missile (Lower)

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVAIR.NAVAIR NAWC AD.NAVAIR WARFARE CTR AIRCRAFT DIV · Response deadline: Tue, 10 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is soliciting proposals for two missile adapter components: an upper adapter and lower adapter for the AGM-114 Hellfire missile system. These are mechanical interface components that connect the Hellfire missile to aircraft launch platforms.

The Hellfire is a widely used precision-strike air-to-ground missile employed across multiple U.S. military rotorcraft and unmanned aerial systems. Adapters of this type typically handle structural mounting, electrical connections, and safe separation functions during launch. The "upper" and "lower" designation indicates this procurement covers complementary components that together form the complete launcher-to-missile interface.

NAICS 336419 covers "Other Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing," which includes specialized aerospace components like launcher adapters and missile interface hardware.

Key facts

Who can bid

This opportunity is restricted to small business concerns under NAICS 336419. To qualify, your business must meet the Small Business Administration size standard for this code. You must also be registered in SAM.gov with active status, have a valid CAGE code, and maintain any required defense contracting certifications.

Given NAWCAD's role in naval aviation systems, prior experience with defense/aerospace quality systems is typically expected. Manufacturers with AS9100 certification, ITAR registration, and familiarity with military specifications for missile handling equipment may have advantages. If you have produced launcher components for the Hellfire or similar missile systems—such as the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) or comparable platforms—emphasize that heritage.

First-time defense contractors should verify their facility security clearance status and ITAR compliance before expending proposal resources. The total small business set-aside means no large business teaming is required for eligibility, though subcontracting partnerships are still permitted.

How to put together a competitive bid

Technical approach: See the solicitation for exact performance specifications. Hellfire adapters must typically withstand severe vibration, shock, and thermal cycling environments while maintaining precise alignment tolerances. Your proposal should demonstrate manufacturing processes capable of holding tight geometric tolerances in materials suitable for ordnance applications—likely aluminum or steel alloys with specialized surface treatments.

Quality assurance: NAWCAD will expect detailed quality plans. Include your approach to first-article inspection, source inspection protocols, and traceability documentation. If you hold AS9100D certification, highlight it prominently. Reference any prior DCMA-approved processes or successful government source inspections.

Past performance: Document deliveries of similar missile launch equipment, ordnance handling components, or other NAVAIR programs. Quantify on-time delivery rates and any quality acceptance metrics. See the solicitation for specific past performance requirements and format.

Pricing strategy: As a small business set-aside, you compete only against other small businesses. Develop your cost basis from actual manufacturing cycle times, material costs, and appropriate overhead. Ensure your pricing narrative explains any assumptions about tooling, inspection equipment, or long-lead materials. The government may evaluate price alongside technical merit, or on lowest-price technically acceptable basis—see the solicitation for the specific source selection method.

Small business factors: If you qualify as a woman-owned, veteran-owned, HUBZone, or 8(a) small business, note this in your proposal as appropriate. While the set-aside is total small business, socioeconomic status may provide additional evaluation consideration if the solicitation so provides.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N6833526Q1186
2. Verify your SAM.gov registration is active through at least the response deadline
3. Confirm small business size status for NAICS 336419 via SBA certification if needed
4. Note the deadline: November 10, 2026, 3:00 PM Eastern Time—late submissions will not be considered
5. Coordinate any required facility clearances or ITAR compliance measures before proposal submission

See the solicitation for complete technical specifications, delivery requirements, evaluation criteria, and submission instructions.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →