CAMERA,HEADS UP DIS
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS PHILADELPHIA.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT · Response deadline: Mon, 09 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Department of the Navy, through NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Philadelphia, is soliciting offers for a Camera, Heads Up Display system. This falls under Federal Supply Classification (FSC) 5821, which covers communication, detection, and coherent radiation equipment—specifically cameras and related optical sensing devices.
Heads-up display (HUD) cameras are integral components in aviation and weapons systems, typically used to project critical flight, targeting, or navigation data directly into a pilot's line of sight while simultaneously recording or capturing that information. Given NAVSUP WSS Philadelphia's role in supporting naval aviation and weapons systems worldwide, this acquisition likely supports fleet readiness for military aircraft platforms.
The title suggests a replacement or spare procurement for an existing defense system rather than a developmental effort. NAVSUP WSS manages the Navy's supply chain for aviation and maritime weapons systems, so this contract would contribute to sustaining operational capability rather than new platform development.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Navy / NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Philadelphia |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0038327RDA04 |
| NAICS | 334220 — Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | November 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Not specified in metadata; see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This is a full and open competition with no set-aside program designated, meaning any responsible firm—large or small business—can submit an offer. The NAICS code 334220 points to manufacturers of radio, television, and wireless communications equipment, which includes optical and electro-optical components like HUD cameras.
Small businesses can absolutely compete here. The absence of a set-aside does not prevent small business participation; it simply means the Navy has not restricted competition to any specific socioeconomic category. If your firm manufactures or supplies HUD cameras, electro-optical sensors, avionics display components, or related subsystems, you may be eligible.
Given the specialized defense nature of this requirement, potential bidders should assess whether they have:
- Experience with military-grade optical or display systems
- Capacity to meet NAVSUP WSS quality and traceability standards
- Ability to handle FSC 5821 commoditized items in the defense supply chain
If you are a small business without direct HUD camera manufacturing capability, consider whether you could partner as a supplier or value-added distributor—but verify the solicitation's contractor requirements first.
How to put together a competitive bid
For defense optical component procurements, competition typically turns on these factors:
Technical compliance: HUD cameras for military use must meet exacting specifications for resolution, field of view, environmental hardening (temperature, vibration, humidity), and electromagnetic interference shielding. Obtain the full specification from the solicitation and verify your product matches every performance parameter.
Past performance: NAVSUP WSS evaluates contractor history with similar defense items. Document any prior deliveries to military aviation programs, especially under NAVSUP WSS contracts or with Prime Vendor partners.
Pricing strategy: Without a set-aside, you'll compete directly against established defense contractors. Research historical pricing for FSC 5821 items through FPDS or SAM.gov contract data. Consider whether you can offer lifecycle cost advantages through reliability or reduced maintenance requirements.
Logistics capability: NAVSUP WSS manages global distribution. Confirm you can meet required delivery schedules, packaging standards (likely MIL-STD-2073), and marking requirements for defense supply chain traceability.
Quality certification: Defense optical components typically require AS9100 or ISO 9001 certification. Verify your quality management system meets any stated requirements see the solicitation.
Next steps
- Access the full solicitation immediately on SAM.gov using solicitation number N0038327RDA04
- Review complete specifications, quantities, delivery requirements, and evaluation criteria—these critical details are not present in the metadata above
- Confirm your NAICS 334220 eligibility and update your SAM registration if needed
- Note the firm deadline: November 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time—late submissions to NAVSUP WSS are typically rejected without exception
- Contact the contracting officer listed in the SAM notice with any pre-bid questions; allow adequate time for written responses before preparing your offer
View the official notice on SAM.gov →