How to bid on Maritime Manufacturing Modernization Research for the Dept of Defense

What the Dept of Defense is buying

The Department of Defense, through the Navy Manufacturing Technology Program, is looking for research and development ideas. The goal is to improve manufacturing speed, production throughput, and the resilience of the industrial base.

Projects should support shipyards, maintenance depots, and supply-chain partners. The emphasis is on making it faster to build, arm, and repair naval assets. Vendors should propose research that removes current barriers and strengthens the shipbuilding enterprise.

Key dates for this opportunity

This solicitation was published on August 25, 2026. The deadline for submitting your proposal is September 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. All proposals must be received by this time to be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for professional firms with expertise in research and development, particularly those focused on manufacturing improvements. Companies that can demonstrate how their innovations will enhance the efficiency of shipyards, maintenance depots, and supply chain partners in the maritime sector are a good fit. The focus is on strengthening the Nation's shipbuilding enterprise.

How to respond

To access the full solicitation, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Clearly articulate how your proposed research directly addresses the stated goals of improving manufacturing speed, throughput, and industrial base resilience. Provide specific examples of how your innovation will dismantle existing barriers within the shipbuilding enterprise.

Focus on the practical impact of your research. Explain how it will enable faster building, arming, and repairing. Ensure your proposal highlights the benefits to shipyards, maintenance depots, and supply chain partners, demonstrating a clear understanding of the Navy's needs.