GAU-24 Sources Sought
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is conducting a Sources Sought to identify potential manufacturers for the GAU-24/A 7.62MM Aircraft Machine Gun. This market research aims to determine an acquisition strategy for a common replacement weapon, with an anticipated performance period from FY27 for 36-60 months. Responses are due February 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
NAVAIR seeks sources capable of manufacturing the GAU-24/A in accordance with a Government-owned Technical Data Package (TDP). Key requirements include:
- Manufacturing: Produce GAU-24/A per TDP, demonstrating a Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) of 8.
- Quality Assurance: Adhere to strict quality control and military specifications.
- Delivery: Deliver an initial five (5) units to NSWC Crane Indiana within 12 months post-contract award, with production facilities supporting a minimum of ten (10) additional units per year.
- Technical Support: Provide support during production as needed.
- System Components: The GAU-24 includes the gun and feeder/delinker; ancillary equipment or weapon system integration hardware is not included.
- Parts Sourcing: FN America is approved for barrel manufacturing; offerors must produce or source all other components. The Government intends to qualify one vendor for the end item.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Anticipated Duration: FY27 for 36-60 months
- NAICS: 332994 (Small Arms Ammunition Manufacturing)
- PSC: 1005 (Guns, Through 30 Mm)
- Set-Aside: None specified; businesses of all sizes are encouraged to respond.
- Response Due: February 13, 2026 (confirmed by latest Q&A).
- Published: February 11, 2026.
Key Clarifications
- Testing: The GAU-24/A has undergone TOP 03-2-45A testing. A "proof test" mirroring GAU-2B/A requirements is likely, including magnetic particle inspection on barrels and Computed Tomography for cracks in the titanium rotor. A test fire of up to 100 rounds is required, anticipated to be performed by the Government acceptance facility.
- Corrosion Prevention: Contractors are not required to develop a Corrosion Prevention and Control Plan (CPCP) or provide a fitted protective cover.
- TDP Access: The TDP will be provided upon request, subject to export control regulations. Interested parties must have necessary certifications and clearances.
Submittal Information
Interested parties must submit a Capability Statement package by February 13, 2026, electronically to Brittoney Green (brittoney.k.green.civ@us.navy.mil). Submissions should be no more than 10 pages (8.5 x 11, Times New Roman 12-point minimum) and address:
- Basic Company Information (Notice number, CAGE, DUNS, POCs).
- Company Profile (employees, revenue, business size).
- Past Performance (similar efforts within 3 years).
- Technical and Manufacturing Capabilities (experience with TDPs, GAU-24/A production, facilities, quality certifications, titanium molding if applicable).
- Cybersecurity (ability to handle CUI per DFARS 252.204-7012).
- Risk Assessment and mitigation strategies.
- Readiness to Perform (ability to start without additional negotiations).
- Small Business Participation (if applicable, ability to perform 50% of tasking).
- A Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost estimate for manufacturing five (5) GAU-24/A machine guns, including assumptions.
Additional Notes
This is for informational purposes only and is not a Request for Proposal. The Government will not pay for information received. Responses will be used for market research to determine the acquisition strategy and competition pathway. Proprietary information must be clearly marked. Technical reviewers from commercial firms under contract to the Government may access responses under NDA.