First Article Inspection and Testing

The contract requires the production and full testing of a first article consisting of 50 units, with specific emphasis on shear testing and load versus displacement analysis to validate performance under mechanical stress. All testing must generate government-ready data packages suitable for formal submission, ensuring compliance with defense standards and documentation requirements. The work is tied to a Total Small Business Set-Aside under FAR 19.5, meaning only small businesses are eligible to bid, and the NAICS code 332710 indicates the primary focus is on forging and stamping operations. The performance location is designated as Indian Head, Maryland, with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division overseeing the project under the Department of Defense. Proposals must be submitted by July 21, 2026, following a posting date of July 2, 2026, and the contract is structured as a subcontract, indicating the award recipient will likely operate under a prime contractor arrangement.