Bid guide

How to bid on Optoelectronics, Power Electronics, and Radiation Effects Research for DEPT of Defense

DEPT of Defense Washington, DCCloses August 13, 2026

What the Naval Research Laboratory is buying

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) plans to acquire specialized research and development scientific and engineering support. This work focuses on advanced semiconductor materials, devices, and circuits. These components are for military applications on Earth and in space, aiming to boost readiness, cut maintenance costs, and reduce risks.

The anticipated contract will have a 12-month base period and four additional 12-month option periods, each lasting 12 months. It will use a cost-plus-fixed-fee pricing structure and will be awarded through full and open competition.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This is a pre-solicitation notice, not a request for proposals. The actual solicitation is expected to be released on or about August 15, 2026. The deadline for this pre-solicitation notice was August 13, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. This means the agency was gathering information before the formal solicitation.

Once the solicitation is issued, it will be available on SAM.gov. You will need to monitor SAM.gov for the official release and any amendments.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with expertise in specialized research and development, particularly in optoelectronics, power electronics, and radiation effects. The work involves advanced semiconductor materials, devices, and circuits for military applications.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this procurement is 541715, which covers Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology). The Product Service Code is AJ11, for R&D: General Science/Technology (Basic Research).

How to respond to the upcoming solicitation

The solicitation has not yet been issued. It is anticipated to be made available on SAM.gov around August 15, 2026. To access it, you will need to visit SAM.gov and search for the opportunity.

You may need a free account on SAM.gov to view all documents. It is crucial to have an active registration in the SAM database to be eligible for any award. Offerors are responsible for regularly checking SAM.gov for the solicitation and any amendments. Email is the only accepted form of communication for questions once the solicitation is live.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Given this is a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract, ensure your proposed costs are thoroughly justified and clearly presented. The agency will evaluate proposals based on best value through a tradeoff source selection process, meaning both technical merit and cost will be considered.

Focus on demonstrating your firm's specialized scientific and engineering expertise in advanced semiconductor materials, devices, and circuits. Highlight relevant past performance, especially for terrestrial and space military applications. Clearly articulate how your proposed research and development support will increase readiness, reduce maintenance costs, and mitigate risks for military missions. Since the primary place of performance is the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., consider your logistical capabilities for performing work at that location.

See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond

Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.

View this bid on BiddingSimple

This guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.