TOWED ARRAY SUBASEM
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS MECHANICSBURG.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT MECH · Response deadline: Fri, 04 Dec 2026
What the government is buying
The Navy's NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support (Mechanicsburg) is soliciting offers for a Towed Array Subassembly. Towed arrays are sonar systems towed behind surface ships or submarines—long, cable-like structures containing hydrophones that detect underwater sounds. These systems are critical for anti-submarine warfare, undersea surveillance, and maritime intelligence gathering. A "subassembly" indicates this is a component-level procurement rather than a complete towed array system, likely involving sensors, electronics packages, cable sections, or handling equipment that integrates into the larger sonar array. See the solicitation for the exact technical scope, deliverables, and any accompanying data requirements.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, Mechanicsburg (Dept. of the Navy) |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0010427QNA41 |
| NAICS | 334290 — Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | December 4, 2026, 4:30 p.m. EDT |
| Place of performance | See the solicitation |
Who can bid
This solicitation is full and open with no set-aside restriction, meaning businesses of any size—including large defense contractors—may compete. Small businesses are welcome to bid directly. The NAICS code 334290 covers manufacturers of communications equipment not classified elsewhere, including specialized military communications and detection apparatus. Firms with experience in undersea cable systems, sonar components, naval electronics, or ruggedized maritime sensors would be natural candidates. If you are a small business lacking full technical capability, consider partnering with a larger firm as a subcontractor or forming a joint venture, though the prime contract itself carries no small-business preference.
How to put together a competitive bid
Towed array subassemblies demand exceptional reliability in high-pressure, corrosive saltwater environments and must integrate with existing Navy platforms. To strengthen your bid:
- Demonstrate maritime/undersea pedigree: Highlight prior production of naval sonar components, towed cable systems, or MIL-STD-810/461 qualified electronics. Navy evaluators overweight proven performance in similar programs.
- Address obsolescence and long-term support: Towed arrays remain in service for decades. Explicitly describe your DIMATA (Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages) mitigation plan, spare parts commitment, and engineering support availability.
- Emphasize quality systems: NAVSUP WSS typically requires AS9100 or ISO 9001 certification. Detail your inspection protocols, traceability procedures, and Navy-unique documentation capabilities.
- Price realistically: Full-and-open Navy electronics solicitations often attract experienced defense primes. Analyze your competitive position on both technical merit and total evaluated price, including options and surge capacity.
- Review NAVSUP WSS terms: This contracting activity uses specific clauses for weapon system support. Scrutinize warranty provisions, packaging requirements, and any Performance-Based Logistics elements.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N0010427QNA41. The response deadline is December 4, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. EDT—allow ample time for SAM registration, document preparation, and any required representations or certifications. Verify all technical specifications, delivery schedules, and evaluation criteria directly in the posted documents before committing proposal resources.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →