Thorlabs Infrared Spectrum Analyzer

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), under the Department of the Navy Office of Naval Research, has issued a Notice of Intent to Award a sole source purchase order to Thorlabs Inc. of Newton, New Jersey for the procurement of a Thorlabs Infrared Spectrum Analyzer. This special notice indicates that NRL has determined only one responsible source can satisfy the agency's requirements and intends to proceed with a non-competitive award. The procurement falls under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) and PSC code 6640 (Laboratory Equipment and Supplies), with a size standard of 1000 employees. The purchase will be executed using Simplified Acquisition Procedures under FAR Part 13.106-1(b) for transactions not exceeding $250,000. This notice is not a solicitation or request for competitive proposals, and no solicitation package will be made available.

Interested parties have until October 29, 2026 to submit capability information demonstrating clear and convincing evidence that competition would be advantageous to the Government. Any responses must reference Notice of Intent number N00173-26-Q-1301265113 and should be submitted according to the posted opening and closing dates. The Government will consider submitted information solely to determine whether a competitive procurement should be conducted, with no obligation to compete the purchase order. Contractors should note that no reimbursement will be provided for costs associated with submitting capability information, and any decision not to compete remains within the sole discretion of the Government. While this notice establishes a mechanism for interested parties to challenge the sole source determination, the stated intent is to proceed with awarding the purchase order to Thorlabs Inc. without competition unless compelling evidence suggests otherwise.