25--ARMOR,TRANSPARENT,VEHI
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.DLA LAND.DLA LAND COLUMBUS.DLA WEAPONS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Tue, 10 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
DLA Weapons Support is seeking transparent vehicle armor, a critical protective component for military vehicles. Transparent armor systems typically consist of multi-layered glass and polycarbonate or ceramic materials engineered to withstand ballistic threats while maintaining visibility for operators. This type of procurement falls under DLA Land's responsibility for sustainment of ground combat systems and related equipment.
The classification code 25 corresponds to items in the Federal Supply Classification for "Vehicular Equipment Components," aligning with the NAICS designation. DLA Weapons Support manages procurement for conventional ammunition, weapons, and associated material systems across the military services.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | DLA Weapons Support (DLA Land Columbus) |
| Notice type | Combined Synopsis/Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | SPE7L327Q0056 |
| NAICS | 336390 |
| Set-aside | Small Business Set Aside - Total |
| Response deadline | November 10, 2026 |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This opportunity is 100% set aside for small businesses under NAICS 336390—"Other Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing." To qualify, your business must meet the Small Business Administration's size standard for this code, which is typically 1,000 employees. You must also be registered in SAM.gov and have an active registration valid through the award period.
Given the specialized nature of transparent armor, interested firms should assess whether they have:
- Relevant manufacturing capabilities for ballistic-transparent materials
- Experience with military specifications or commercial equivalents
- Quality assurance systems capable of meeting DLA's rigorous standards
- Ability to perform any required testing or certification
Companies without prior defense contracting experience may still bid if they can demonstrate technical capability and meet all solicitation requirements.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand the technical requirements. Transparent vehicle armor involves complex specifications around ballistic protection levels, optical clarity, weight, thickness, and environmental durability. See the solicitation for exact performance parameters, testing protocols, and applicable military standards (such as MIL-STD-662 for ballistic resistance or related specifications).
Verify your supply chain and production capacity. Armor manufacturing often requires specialized raw materials—advanced ceramics, toughened glass substrates, optical-grade polymers—that may have long lead times. Confirm your ability to source materials and meet delivery requirements before committing.
Review inspection and acceptance terms. DLA typically requires first article testing or source inspection for critical safety items. Determine whether the solicitation requires these and budget accordingly.
Examine packaging and shipping requirements. Armor is fragile and heavy; special crating may be mandated for military shipment to depots or direct delivery points.
Price strategically. Small business set-aside competitions can still be aggressive. Analyze historical pricing for similar DLA procurements if available, and ensure your pricing accounts for all costs including any unique testing, special packaging, or logistical requirements.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number SPE7L327Q0056. The posted date was October 27, 2026, with responses due November 10, 2026—a narrow window that demands prompt action. The solicitation document will contain essential details including exact quantities, delivery schedules, technical specifications, and evaluation criteria not provided in the synopsis. Monitor SAM.gov for any amendments that may modify requirements or extend the deadline.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →