ELECTRON TUBE
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS MECHANICSBURG.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT MECH · Response deadline: Tue, 10 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The U.S. Navy is soliciting bids for electron tubes, a type of vacuum tube used in specialized electronic applications. Electron tubes amplify or switch electronic signals and are still required in certain high-power, high-frequency, and radiation-hardened military systems where solid-state alternatives cannot meet performance requirements. Common defense applications include radar transmitters, communications equipment, electronic warfare systems, and legacy avionics.
The classification code 5960 confirms this is a "Tube and Solid State Devices" procurement under the Federal Supply Classification system. Because the place of performance is not specified in the metadata, see the solicitation for where items must be delivered or manufactured.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Navy, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, Mechanicsburg |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0010427QTA19 |
| NAICS | 334419 (Other Electronic Component Manufacturing) |
| Set-aside | None (no set-aside specified; open to all qualified bidders) |
| Response deadline | November 10, 2026, 4:30 PM ET |
| Place of performance | See the solicitation |
Who can bid
This solicitation is open competition with no set-aside, meaning businesses of any size may bid, including large manufacturers and small businesses. To compete, a company must:
- Be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) with active registration covering the contract period
- Manufacture or supply electron tubes meeting military specifications, which typically include demanding requirements for reliability, environmental tolerance, and traceability
- Have or be able to obtain any required security clearances or facility certifications specified in the full solicitation
- Demonstrate experience with defense supply chains, particularly Navy or NAVSUP WSS contracts, if required
Small businesses in NAICS 334419 should note that the standard size threshold for Other Electronic Component Manufacturing is 750 employees, though size standards for manufacturing can vary by specific product line.
How to put together a competitive bid
Verify technical capabilities first. Electron tubes for military use often must meet MIL-PRF or MIL-STD specifications, and legacy tube types may require access to original manufacturing designs or specialized glass-to-metal sealing and vacuum processing equipment. See the solicitation for exact technical specifications, testing requirements, and whether the Navy is seeking existing stock, new production, or repair/overhaul services.
Address obsolescence and sources issues. Many electron tube types are no longer commercially produced. If you are not the original manufacturer, be prepared to demonstrate how you will obtain or produce the item, including any reverse-engineering or qualification testing needed. NAVSUP WSS frequently manages Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) challenges.
Price strategically. With no set-aside, you will compete against established defense contractors. Research historical pricing for this NSN or similar tubes through GSA Advantage!, FPDS, or DLA parts databases. Factor in qualification costs if first article testing is required.
Emphasize delivery reliability. NAVSUP WSS manages weapon system sustainment; late deliveries can affect fleet readiness. Demonstrate your production schedule, supply chain controls, and past on-time delivery performance.
Review packaging and marking requirements. Military shipments require specific labeling, preservation methods, and documentation per MIL-STD-129 and MIL-STD-2073.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation immediately on SAM.gov using solicitation number N0010427QTA19. The complete document will specify quantity, delivery schedule, exact technical requirements, any first article test requirements, and all clauses and provisions.
Note the deadline: November 10, 2026, at 4:30 PM Eastern Time. This provides approximately eight days from the posted date of November 2, 2026—an unusually tight turnaround that suggests this may be a simplified acquisition or that the government has an urgent requirement. Act quickly to obtain specifications and assess feasibility.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →