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Container, Assembly

DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSEA.NAVSEA WARFARE CENTER.NSWC INDIAN HEAD DIVISION · Response deadline: Thu, 22 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

NSWC Indian Head Division is soliciting offers for a "Container, Assembly" under federal stock classification 8145. This falls under NAICS 332439—Other Metal Container Manufacturing, an industry category covering the fabrication of metal containers such as drums, cans, pails, boxes, and similar products not classified elsewhere.

For defense applications, containers and assemblies in this classification typically serve specialized purposes: ammunition storage, ordnance transport, or secure containment systems for energetic materials. Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head is the Navy's lead technical authority for energetics—explosives, propellants, and related systems—so requirements likely involve containers engineered to stringent safety and performance standards for hazardous or sensitive materials.

The solicitation does not specify quantities, delivery schedules, or technical requirements in the available metadata. See the solicitation for the statement of work, performance specifications, and any drawings or data item requirements.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside, meaning any responsible business—small or large—may submit a bid. NAICS 332439 carries a size standard of 500 employees, so firms at or below this threshold would qualify as small businesses for federal contracting purposes.

Given NSWC Indian Head's mission focus, relevant experience in defense manufacturing—particularly with Department of Defense quality systems, MIL-SPEC compliance, and energetic materials handling—will strengthen a proposal. Firms should verify their SAM.gov registration is active, that any required facility security clearances are current, and that they can meet any NIST SP 800-171 or DFARS cybersecurity requirements applicable to the contract.

See the solicitation for any specific eligibility certifications, past performance requirements, or technical qualifications.

How to put together a competitive bid

For metal container manufacturing under full-and-open defense competition, consider these elements:

Technical compliance above all. Review the drawings and specifications meticulously. NSWC Indian Head procurements for containers typically involve precise tolerances, welding standards, and material certifications. Non-compliant bids risk rejection regardless of price.

Demonstrate manufacturing readiness. Highlight existing production capacity, quality management systems (AS9100, ISO 9001, or comparable), and any Navy/MIL-STD experience. Proximity to Indian Head, MD may factor into logistics and delivery pricing.

Cost realism. With no set-aside, expect competition from established defense contractors. Price competitively while accounting for specialty material costs, testing, and any first-article inspection requirements. See the solicitation for the specific pricing structure and any cost narrative instructions.

Past performance. Prepare relevant contract references, especially for DoD or Navy container/ordnance-related work. Include Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or customer-point-of-contact information.

Security and safety. If the work involves classified information or controlled unclassified information (CUI), address your safeguarding posture explicitly.

Next steps

1. Access the full solicitation package on SAM.gov using solicitation number N0017427Q0001
2. Review all attachments: technical specifications, drawings, delivery requirements, and evaluation criteria
3. Note the firm deadline: October 22, 2026, 8:00 a.m. EDT—late submissions are inadmissible
4. Submit questions or requests for clarification through the designated contracting officer prior to any Q&A deadline see the solicitation for specifics

View the official notice on SAM.gov →