QorTek Inc., a Pennsylvania-based engineering and manufacturing firm specializing in advanced power electronics and piezoelectric systems, has secured a five-year, $12.4 million contract with the U.S. Navy to manufacture DT-100 Staves for critical undersea warfare applications, reinforcing the company’s position as a trusted defense contractor.
LINDEN, Pa. December 17, 2025 — QorTek Inc. announced that the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport has awarded the company a $12,380,613 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to manufacture DT-100 Staves. The firm-fixed-price contract spans a five-year ordering period through August 2030, with delivery options extending 13 months beyond the base period.
The contract, secured through competitive procurement as a small business set-aside, positions QorTek among select defense manufacturers supporting the Navy’s undersea warfare capabilities. Work will be performed at QorTek’s facilities in State College PA and Linden, PA, where the company’s engineering teams have developed specialized expertise in underwater acoustic systems and sonar technology.
How does this contract strengthen Navy undersea capabilities?
The DT-100 Stave manufacturing program addresses critical needs in naval defense systems. With initial funding of $6.1 million allocated across fiscal 2024 and 2025—including contributions from the national sea-based deterrence fund—the contract ensures sustained production capacity for essential underwater defense components. The Navy selected QorTek following a competitive evaluation that attracted two qualified bidders, recognizing the company’s proven track record in precision manufacturing and compliance with stringent military standards.
QorTek’s capabilities in textured piezoelectric materials and underwater acoustic transducers align directly with the technical requirements of advanced sonar systems. The company maintains key defensesector compliance measures, including a CMMC Level 2 self-assessment, a DIBCAC High (110) assessment score, ITAR registration, and JCP certification, ensuring appropriate handling and protection of sensitive defenserelated information throughout the manufacturing process.
What sets QorTek apart in defense manufacturing?
QorTek brings more than three decades of specialized engineering experience to defense contracts, with a team of 35 to 45 engineers—including multiple PhDs—focused on advanced materials science and power electronics. The company’s integrated approach combines contract engineering services with full-scale manufacturing capabilities, allowing rapid transition from research and development phases to production delivery.
The Linden facility houses dedicated laboratories for materials development, power systems testing and acoustic characterization, providing end-to-end control over quality and performance. This vertical integration has made QorTek a strategic partner for defense prime contractors and government agencies seeking reliable, U.S.-based suppliers for mission-critical components.
The contract award follows QorTek’s successful performance on previous SBIR/STTR programs and reinforces the company’s commitment to supporting national defense priorities through innovation and manufacturing excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about QorTek’s role in defense manufacturing and this significant Navy contract.
What are DT-100 Staves used for in Navy systems?
DT-100 Staves are specialized components integrated into underwater acoustic systems that support sonar operations and subsurface detection capabilities. These precision-manufactured elements require exacting tolerances and material specifications to perform reliably in demanding undersea environments.
How does QorTek ensure quality for defense contracts?
QorTek maintains AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality certifications and complies with CMMC Level 2 cybersecurity requirements. The company’s quality management systems meet all applicable military specifications, with rigorous testing procedures at each production stage to verify performance against Navy requirements.
What is the timeline for contract deliveries?
The five-year ordering period extends through August 2030, with individual delivery orders issued as needed by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center. Final deliveries may occur up to 13 months after the base ordering period concludes, providing flexibility for mission-critical supply continuity.
About QorTek
QorTek is an engineering and manufacturing firm specializing in advanced power electronics, piezoelectric materials and underwater acoustic systems. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Linden, Pennsylvania, the company serves defense, aerospace and commercial clients with custom-engineered solutions and contract manufacturing services. QorTek holds multiple defense-sector certifications and has successfully completed numerous SBIR/STTR programs supporting technology transition to operational deployment.
