INFRARED TELESCOPE AND ACCESSORIES
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.ONR.ONR NRL.NAVAL RESEARCH LABORATORY · Response deadline: Mon, 02 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) is procuring infrared telescope equipment and related accessories. This falls under NALCS 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), which covers optical instruments and related equipment used for scientific and research applications.
Infrared telescopes are specialized optical systems that detect and analyze infrared radiation rather than visible light. These instruments are critical for defense and scientific research, enabling capabilities such as thermal imaging, astronomical observation, weather monitoring, and surveillance applications. The "accessories" referenced in the title typically include mounting equipment, detectors, cooling systems, control electronics, or data processing components that support the telescope's primary function.
NRL, as the Navy's corporate research laboratory, conducts advanced scientific research spanning space systems, remote sensing, and optical sciences.see the solicitation
Key facts
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N00173-27-Q-1301397725 |
| NAICS | 334516 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | November 2, 2026, 7:00 AM ET |
| Place of performance | Washington, DC |
Who can bid
This opportunity is restricted to small business concerns under the Total Small Business Set-Aside program. To qualify, your business must meet the SBA size standard for NAICS 334516 ($1,000 employees). You must be registered in SAM.gov, have an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and be classified as "small" in that system for this NAICS code.
Given the specialized nature of infrared telescope equipment, relevant bidders likely include manufacturers or distributors of:
- Precision optical instruments
- Scientific and research-grade telescopes
- Infrared detection and sensor systems
- Laboratory and analytical equipment with defense applications
If you are a small business that does not manufacture these items directly but can meet requirements as a value-added reseller or through teaming arrangements, you may still be eligible—see the solicitation for any restrictions on OEM relationships or subcontracting limits.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical scope early. Infrared telescope procurement for NRL likely involves stringent performance specifications for wavelength sensitivity, resolution, thermal stability, and integration with existing research infrastructure. Request clarification through the contracting officer if optical, mechanical, or software interfaces are unclear.
Demonstrate relevant performance history. NRL research contracts often favor vendors with proven experience delivering scientific instrumentation to government or university research institutions. Prepare past performance references that highlight on-time delivery, technical support, and equipment reliability in similar environments.
Address security and facility requirements proactively. Performance in Washington, DC may involve access to NRL facilities with security controls. Determine whether your personnel will need clearances or escort procedures, as this affects pricing and schedule.
Validate your supply chain. Components like cryogenic detectors, precision optics, or specialized infrared sensors may have long lead times. Your proposal should demonstrate viable sourcing with backup suppliers and realistic delivery schedules.
Price strategically for small business competitiveness. As a set-aside, you compete only against other small businesses, but NRL technical evaluations remain rigorous. Balance cost competitiveness with sufficient margin to support installation, training, and any warranty requirements—see the solicitation for evaluation criteria specifics.
Review packaging and shipping specifications. Precision optical equipment requires specialized handling; factor climate-controlled transport and custom crating into your proposal if required.
Next steps
Download and review the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N00173-27-Q-1301397725. The document will contain detailed specifications, evaluation factors, terms and conditions, and any amendments. Note the firm response deadline of November 2, 2026, at 7:00 AM Eastern Time—late submissions will not be considered. Submit questions through the designated SAM.gov channels well before the deadline to allow time for written responses.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →