How to bid on SMT Lab Upgrades for DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) needs specific equipment for its Surface Mounted Technology (SMT) lab. This includes one Vitronics Soltec Centurion CT820 reflow oven and one Electrovert Aquastorm 160 in-line Printed Circuit Board (PCB) cleaning system. The contract also covers delivery, installation, calibration, integration, and training for this equipment. All work must be completed within 180 days after the contract is awarded.

This is a sole-source solicitation, meaning the agency intends to award the contract to a specific vendor, ITW EAE. This is because ITW EAE is identified as the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for both systems and possesses the necessary proprietary data, software rights, and factory-trained engineers for installation and warranty.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on August 5, 2026. Quotations are due by August 31, 2026, at 4:00 PM Pacific Time. This corresponds to August 31, 2026, at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. All submissions must be made through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation Module by this deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for ITW EAE, as it is a sole-source Request for Quotation (RFQ). The agency has determined that ITW EAE is the only responsible source capable of meeting the requirements due to its status as the OEM for the specified equipment and its unique capabilities for installation, integration, and warranty support. The relevant category for this procurement is equipment.

How to respond

ITW EAE should submit its quotation for RFQ N6893626Q5150 through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation Module. Registration in PIEE is required to access the module and submit a quotation. The contractor must also be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to be eligible for award.

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2 (Self) is anticipated. If the contractor disagrees with this anticipated level, they should provide a rationale and recommend a different CMMC level. Contractors needing access to unclassified export-controlled technical data must have an active Joint Certification Program (JCP) certification.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even for a sole-source solicitation, ensure your quotation is complete and addresses all aspects of the requirement, including delivery, installation, calibration, integration, and training. Clearly outline how you will meet the 180-day completion timeline after contract award. Provide detailed information on your proprietary technical data, software rights, and the qualifications of your factory-trained field service engineers.

Confirm your SAM registration is active and up-to-date. If you anticipate any issues with the CMMC Level 2 requirement, prepare a clear explanation and a recommended alternative. For any questions regarding the solicitation, submit them via email to the contracting specialist before the deadline.