MASK, UNDERWATER
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS MECHANICSBURG.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT MECH · Response deadline: Fri, 06 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The U.S. Navy is soliciting bids for underwater masks through NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Mechanicsburg. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) manages this procurement for the Department of the Navy.
Underwater masks are standard diving equipment that create an airspace in front of a diver's eyes to enable clear vision underwater. These masks are used across naval operations including search and rescue, salvage, explosive ordnance disposal, ship husbandry, and combat diving missions. The military specification typically covers low-volume designs with tempered glass lenses, silicone skirts, and adjustable straps compatible with other diving gear.
NAICS code 333998 classifies this as "All Other Miscellaneous General Purpose Machinery Manufacturing," which includes commercial and industrial equipment not otherwise classified. The federal supply classification code 1386 corresponds to diving and underwater salvage equipment.
Given the Panama City, Florida place of performance, this likely supports Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), the Navy's primary research, development, test and evaluation laboratory for littoral warfare systems—including maritime expeditionary and special warfare missions where dive equipment is critical.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Navy, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Mechanicsburg |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0010427QXA05 |
| NAICS | 333998 (All Other Miscellaneous General Purpose Machinery Manufacturing) |
| Set-aside | None (Full and Open Competition) |
| Response deadline | November 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Panama City Beach, FL |
Who can bid
This is a full and open competition with no small business set-aside, meaning any responsible manufacturer—large or small—may submit a bid. Small businesses remain eligible to compete.
To qualify, you must be registered in SAM.gov with active registration valid through the award period. Your firm should demonstrate:
- Capability to manufacture or supply diving masks meeting military specifications
- Experience with federal contracting and defense procurement requirements
- Quality assurance processes for personal protective/life support equipment
Firms in NAICS 333998 with manufacturing capability for rubber/silicone products and optical components should evaluate whether their existing product lines meet military diving mask standards.
How to put together a competitive bid
Since this is a full and open solicitation with established defense buyers, emphasize proven performance and cost discipline:
Technical capability: Document your mask's compliance with applicable military specifications for underwater breathing apparatus accessories. See the solicitation for exact specification numbers. Include test data on depth ratings, lens impact resistance, and seal reliability under pressure.
Past performance: Highlight similar deliveries to DLA, Navy, Coast Guard, or other federal agencies. Commercial sales to professional dive operations or public safety dive teams also strengthen your submission.
Pricing strategy: Full and open competition means competing against large established defense contractors. Analyze your manufacturing efficiency—consider whether teaming with a larger manufacturer or operating as a subcontractor improves your competitive position.
Packaging and marking: DLA contracts require strict compliance with military packaging standards (MIL-STD-2073). Factor these costs accurately.
Delivery schedule: The Panama City Beach destination suggests direct delivery to NSWC PCD or a nearby Navy activity. Confirm routing instructions in the solicitation.
Next steps
Download the complete solicitation N0010427QXA05 at SAM.gov. Review all technical specifications, delivery requirements, and clauses before preparing your proposal.
Critical deadline: All offers must be submitted by November 6, 2026 at 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Allow ample time for SAM.gov system access and any required documentation uploads. Note the exact solicitation requirements for submission method—some NAVSUP solicitations require electronic submission through specified platforms.
Verify your SAM.gov registration expiration date now; it must remain active through any potential award period.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →