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42--LIFE PRESERVER,VEST

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY.TROOP SUPPORT CONSTRUCTION & EQUIPMENT.DLA TROOP SUPPORT · Response deadline: Fri, 16 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support is seeking a supplier for life preserver vests. This falls under DLA's routine procurement of individual equipment and survival gear for military personnel. Life preserver vests are personal flotation devices used across military branches for maritime operations, training exercises, and safety protocols.

The classification code 42 and the NAICS code 326299 indicate this is a manufactured rubber and plastic product—not a services contract. NAICS 326299 covers "All Other Rubber Product Manufacturing," which includes various molded, extruded, and fabricated rubber goods. Life preserver vests in military specifications typically incorporate foam-filled or inflatable bladder systems, often with nylon or rubberized outer shells and closing mechanisms.

This is a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, meaning the notice serves as both an announcement of the requirement and the formal solicitation document. See the solicitation for specific technical requirements, delivery schedules, and inspection criteria.

Key facts

Who can bid

This procurement is full and open competition with no set-aside program designated. Any responsible business—large or small—may submit a bid. Small businesses interested in competing should confirm their SAM.gov registration is active and that they have the appropriate North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code in their profile.

Manufacturers with experience in personal flotation devices, military-specification rubber/plastic products, or survival equipment would be natural competitors. However, no size standard preference applies here. If you are a small business, you will compete directly against large established defense contractors and other qualified suppliers.

How to put together a competitive bid

For manufactured products under DLA Troop Support, focus on these elements:

Technical compliance: Life preservers for military use must meet precise specifications—buoyancy ratings, materials tolerances, colorfastness, and hardware durability. Obtain the full solicitation to identify whether this requires MIL-PRF-32303 or another specific standard. Submit complete technical proposals with material certifications and test data.

Past performance: DLA evaluates contractor performance history rigorously. Document any prior deliveries of similar personal protective equipment to DLA, other defense agencies, or commercial equivalents. Include delivery ratings and quality scores if available.

Pricing strategy: With no set-aside, expect aggressive competition. Analyze historical pricing for similar DLA life preserver awards if available. Factor in raw material volatility for petroleum-based foam and synthetic fabrics. Consider whether economic price adjustments are offered in this solicitation.

Quality assurance: Be prepared for government source inspection or certificate of conformance requirements. Rubber and plastic products often require lot testing for seam strength, inflation valve integrity, and buoyancy retention.

Small-business considerations: While no set-aside applies, subcontracting plans may be required above certain thresholds. Review size and reporting obligations if you are a large business; if small, consider whether teaming with a larger manufacturer strengthens your technical approach.

Next steps

Access the complete solicitation SPE8E627T0109 on SAM.gov. Review the technical specification, packaging requirements, and inspection clauses in full. Note that responses are due October 16, 2026—verify whether this refers to proposal submission, quote receipt, or another milestone by reading the document carefully. Confirm your SAM.gov registration and any required DLA qualifications are current before preparing your response.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →