Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) of AN/SSQ-101B sonobuoys
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) intends to award a Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) contract to Sparton DeLeon Springs LLC for the Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) of AN/SSQ-101B sonobuoys. This is a Pre-Solicitation Notice for an anticipated non-competitive award in FY2027. Responses from responsible sources will be considered to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible. Responses are due May 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
This effort requires the manufacture, assembly, and delivery of an estimated 4,100 AN/SSQ-101B production sonobuoys for Fiscal Year 2027. These sonobuoys are critical sensors used by the U.S. Navy's Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) forces for detecting, classifying, and localizing adversary submarines. The place of performance is De Leon Springs, FL.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm Fixed-Price (FFP)
- Anticipated Awardee: Sparton DeLeon Springs LLC
- Anticipated Award Date: Fiscal Year 2027
- Set-Aside: None (non-competitive, based on prior market research)
- Response Due: May 13, 2026 (15 days from publication)
- Published: April 28, 2026
Qualification Requirements
To be eligible for award, an offeror's product must meet general performance requirements for the AN/SSQ-101B. Offerors must possess or acquire fully qualified production-ready designs, or present a plan to achieve them within six months after contract award. A Government qualified design is defined as one previously delivered to the Government or declared qualified by the Procurement Contracting Officer.
Additional Notes
This is a Pre-Solicitation Notice and not a request for competitive proposals. The Government is not obligated to award a contract as a result of this notice. However, all responsible sources may submit a quotation, bid, or proposal for consideration. Information received will be used to determine if a competitive procurement is possible. The authority for this non-competitive action is 10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(3) as implemented by FAR 6.103-3 (Industrial mobilization). Vendors interested in subcontracting opportunities should contact Ms. Lori Clayton at lori.clayton@sparton.com.