MATS Functional Test Set (FMS)
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVAIR.NAVAIR NAWC AD.NAVAIR WARFARE CTR AIRCRAFT DIV · Response deadline: Fri, 30 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is soliciting for a MATS Functional Test Set (FMS). This falls under the broad category of aircraft maintenance and support equipment. The Federal Supply Classification code 4920 corresponds to Aircraft Maintenance and Repair Shop Specialized Equipment, which includes test sets, calibration equipment, and other tools used to maintain and troubleshoot aircraft systems.
The term "FMS" typically refers to Foreign Military Sales, indicating this equipment may support U.S. allies and partner nations operating aircraft maintained by NAWCAD. A "Functional Test Set" is diagnostic equipment used to verify that aircraft components or systems operate correctly without requiring full disassembly. MATS likely refers to a specific program or system within naval aviation—see the solicitation for the precise system description and intended end users.
NAICS 334519 covers Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing, which includes the production of test and measurement instruments used in industrial, military, and scientific applications. This suggests the contract involves manufacturing or supplying specialized electronic test equipment rather than routine services or off-the-shelf commercial items.
NJ" indicates New Jersey—consistent with NAWCAD's Lakehurst or other New Jersey facilities—though specific location details require verification in the full document.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N6833526Q1183 |
| NAICS | 334519 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | October 30, 2026, 3:00 PM EDT |
| Place of performance | New Jersey (see solicitation for specifics) |
Who can bid
This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside, meaning only small business concerns as defined by the Small Business Administration may submit offers. For NAICS 334519, the size standard is 1,000 employees—your business must have no more than 1,000 employees, including affiliates, to qualify.
You must be registered in SAM.gov with active status. Your NAICS code profile should include 334519. For manufacturing contracts, the government typically requires either:
- You are the manufacturer of the end item, or
- You qualify under the nonmanufacturer rule (primarily a supplier/reseller with no more than 500 employees, offering a domestic end product from another small business manufacturer)
Given the specialized nature of functional test sets for military aircraft, most successful bidders will likely be original manufacturers or have established partnerships with component producers. Verify your small business status and any required certifications—see the solicitation for specific representations and certifications.
How to put together a competitive bid
Technical compliance is paramount for military test equipment. Focus on:
Detailed specifications: Functional test sets for aircraft maintenance require precise technical parameters—input/output ranges, accuracy, environmental tolerances, and interface compatibility with target systems. See the solicitation for exact performance requirements.
Military standards and qualifications: Expect requirements for MIL-STD compliance, electromagnetic interference (EMI) testing, and possibly airworthiness or flightline certifications. Document your past experience with similar defense electronics manufacturing.
Quality systems: Demonstrate AS9100 compliance or equivalent quality management systems for aerospace/defense manufacturing. Highlight your inspection, testing, and traceability procedures.
Lead time and obsolescence management: Military programs often span decades. Address how you will support long-term sustainment, spare parts availability, and technology refresh—see the solicitation for required period of support.
Pricing structure: Decompose costs clearly—test sets often involve significant non-recurring engineering (NRE) and recurring production units. Identify any government-furnished equipment or data.
Past performance: Cite relevant contracts for similar test equipment delivered to DoD, particularly NAVAIR or other naval aviation customers.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N6833526Q1183. The complete document contains detailed technical specifications, deliverable schedules, data rights requirements, and exact delivery instructions.
Note the deadline: Offers are due October 30, 2026, at 3:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time. Late submissions will not be accepted. Allow time for SAM.gov registration, solicitation download, and any required pre-bid communications or site visits identified in the posting.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →