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TR-317D and TR-353A Transducers and Spare Parts Production.

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSEA.NAVSEA WARFARE CENTER.NUWC DIV NEWPORT · Response deadline: Tue, 10 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport (NUWC Newport) is seeking a contractor to produce TR-317D and TR-353A transducers and spare parts. Transducers are devices that convert energy from one form to another—undersea warfare transducers typically convert between electrical signals and acoustic (sound) energy for sonar systems, underwater communications, and navigation. TR-317D and TR-353A are specific military designations for transducer models used in naval applications; see the solicitation for exact technical specifications and performance requirements.

This is a production contract, meaning the government wants manufactured items rather than research and development. The scope includes both the transducer units themselves and spare parts, suggesting ongoing operational support needs for existing systems.

Key facts

NAICS 334511 covers "Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing"—a category that includes sonar equipment and underwater acoustic instruments.

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside, meaning any qualified business can bid regardless of size or socioeconomic status. Small businesses will compete directly against large defense contractors.

To be competitive, you likely need:

• Experience manufacturing precision electro-acoustic devices or sonar components
• Familiarity with military specifications (MIL-STD) and defense quality systems
• An active SAM.gov registration
• If aiming for prime contract position, appropriate security clearances and facility requirements; see the solicitation for specifics

Small businesses without direct transducer experience might consider subcontracting opportunities or teaming with established defense manufacturers, given the specialized nature of underwater acoustic equipment.

How to put together a competitive bid

Given the naval warfare context and NAICS 334511 classification:

Technical response: Focus on proven manufacturing processes for piezoelectric or magnetostrictive transducers, depending on the design. Emphasize quality control for acoustic performance consistency, pressure testing capabilities for underwater operations, and traceability of materials. Historical production data from similar programs strengthens credibility.

Past performance: The government will likely weight experience with NAVSEA, NUWC, or comparable defense customers heavily. Document any prior contracts for sonar components, hydrophones, or undersea sensor systems.

Pricing strategy: Full and open competition means expect aggressive pricing from large contractors. Small businesses should identify genuine cost advantages—lower overhead, specialized workforce efficiency, or innovative manufacturing approaches—rather than competing solely on scale.

Compliance: Verify whether the solicitation requires ISO 9001, AS9100, or specific NAVSEA contractor certification. Defense production often requires DFARS compliance and counterfeit parts prevention protocols.

Next steps

1. Read the full solicitation at SAM.gov using solicitation number N6660427R0004
2. Confirm place of performance and any geographic requirements or incentives not shown in the metadata
3. Review the technical data package for exact transducer specifications, quantity, and delivery schedule
4. Note the deadline: Responses are due November 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time—allow time for SAM.gov registration updates, proposal development, and any required representations or certifications

View the official notice on SAM.gov →