Bid guide
How to bid on a Thorlabs Infrared Spectrum Analyzer for the Dept of the Navy
What the agency is buying
The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) intends to purchase a Thorlabs Infrared Spectrum Analyzer. This is a sole-source procurement, meaning the NRL plans to buy directly from Thorlabs Inc. because they believe only Thorlabs can meet their specific needs. This purchase falls under the simplified acquisition threshold of $250,000.
While this is not a request for competitive proposals, the NRL will consider information from other businesses. If your company can clearly demonstrate it can provide the same equipment and that a competitive procurement would benefit the government, your information will be reviewed. This is an opportunity for vendors who can supply equivalent equipment to potentially open up a competitive bid.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This notice was published on October 24, 2025. The deadline for interested parties to submit their capabilities is October 29, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. At this deadline, the NRL will stop accepting information from vendors.
Any information received will be used to determine if a competitive procurement should be conducted. The government has sole discretion on whether to proceed with a competitive bid based on the responses.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for businesses that can supply an infrared spectrum analyzer equivalent to the Thorlabs model. The relevant North American Industry Classification System Code (NAICS) is 334516, with a size standard of 1000 employees. The Federal Supply Code (FSC) / Product Service Code (PSC) is 6640.
If your firm specializes in scientific instruments, particularly optical or spectroscopic equipment, and can offer a comparable product, this is relevant to you. Your response must provide clear and convincing evidence that competition would be advantageous to the government.
How to respond
To access the original notice, you need to click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view any associated documents, though this is not always required.
Your response should clearly reference the Notice of Intent number, N00173-26-Q-1301265113, in your correspondence and in the subject line of your email. This is not a solicitation, so no solicitation package is available, and email requests for one will not be honored. Focus on demonstrating your capability to meet the requirement.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When responding to a sole-source notice, your primary goal is to convince the agency that your product is a viable alternative and that competition would benefit them. Clearly outline the specifications and features of your infrared spectrum analyzer, directly comparing them to what you understand the Thorlabs product offers.
Provide specific details on how your equipment meets or exceeds the agency's stated needs. Emphasize any cost savings, improved performance, or unique features your product provides. Remember, the government will not reimburse any costs associated with preparing your capability information, so focus on a concise and impactful submission.
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 BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Dept of the Navy; the original posting controls.