Magnet for magneto optic
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.ONR.ONR NRL.NAVAL RESEARCH LABORATORY · Response deadline: Thu, 15 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) needs a magnet for magneto-optic applications. This falls under NRL's broader mission of scientific research and advanced technology development for the Navy and Marine Corps. Magneto-optic materials are used in devices where magnetic fields interact with light—common applications include optical isolators, circulators, sensors, and components for laser systems or communications equipment.
The requirement is classified under NAICS 334516: Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, which covers instruments and related apparatus for measuring and testing. While this classification may seem broad, federal contracting often uses the closest available NAICS code rather than a perfect match.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) / Office of Naval Research (ONR) |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N00173-27-Q-1301397808 |
| NAICS | 334516 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside – Total |
| Response deadline | October 15, 2026, 7:00 AM ET |
| Place of performance | Washington, DC |
Who can bid
This opportunity is 100% set aside for small business. Only U.S. small-business concerns registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) may submit offers. The small-business size standard for NAICS 334516 is 1,000 employees; your business must fall below this threshold.
You must have:
- Active SAM registration (free, but allow several weeks for processing)
- DUNS/UEI identifier
- Any required security clearances or facility clearances if the magnet involves controlled technical data (see the solicitation)
NRL contracts frequently involve export-controlled or military-sensitive technology, so verify whether your facility and personnel can handle any classification requirements before bidding.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirement. Magneto-optic magnets typically require precise field configurations, temperature stability, and compatibility with specific optical wavelengths. Review the solicitation for exact magnetic field strength, geometry, homogeneity specifications, and operating environment.
Demonstrate relevant experience. NRL prioritizes proven performance in research-grade or defense applications. Include past performance on similar custom magnet builds, particularly for government labs, universities, or optics manufacturers. If you lack direct magneto-optic experience, highlight comparable precision magnetic assemblies.
Address quality and testing. Research-grade magnets demand rigorous characterization. Your proposal should describe measurement protocols for field mapping, thermal stability testing, and any required certifications. NRL may require inspection at your facility or witness testing.
Pricing strategy. Combined synopsis/solicitation notices often use simplified acquisition procedures. Ensure your pricing is complete but competitive—government labs typically fund through research appropriations with constrained budgets. Include clearly defined options for spares, extended warranties, or follow-on units if applicable.
Small-business advantages. Emphasize any additional socio-economic certifications (HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, 8(a)) if you hold them, though this is a total small-business set-aside without further competition restriction.
Delivery and logistics. The place of performance is Washington, DC—confirm whether delivery is to NRL's main campus or a specific laboratory facility, and account for any packaging requirements for sensitive optical/magnetic components.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N00173-27-Q-1301397808.
- Note the deadline: October 15, 2026, at 7:00 AM Eastern Time—late submissions will not be considered.
- Verify your SAM registration is active and your business profile reflects NAICS 334516.
- Download all attachments including specifications, statement of work, and any required representations or certifications.
See the solicitation for complete technical requirements, delivery schedule, evaluation criteria, and submission instructions.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →