Custom Biometric Ear Protection
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) at NAS Patuxent River, MD, intends to award a sole-source contract to Custom Biometric Wearables, Inc. (doing business as AwareCBW) for the digital scanning and manufacturing of custom ear molds. This action supports advanced hearing protection for Naval Aviation aircrew and flight-line personnel. This notice is not a request for competitive proposals.
Scope of Work
This contract will procure advanced hearing protection solutions, specifically custom ear molds, for Naval Aviation. The process involves digital scanning of ear canals and manufacturing custom hearing protection devices. A 2023 NAWCAD study confirmed the superiority of digital scanning methods for accuracy, reliability, and performance. Key operational benefits include:
- Improved Speech Intelligibility: Enhanced communication for aviators.
- Superior Noise Attenuation: Reduced harmful noise exposure.
- CEP Compatibility: Seamless integration with Communications Earplug (CEP) systems. Custom Biometric Wearables, Inc. is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of the proprietary eFit scanner, which is the only non-contact optical 3D scanner capable of meeting Navy requirements for precision digital imaging of ear canals (accuracy less than 90 microns). The company also has the manufacturing capability to produce up to 2,000 devices within 60 days.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Notice of Intent to Award Sole-Source (under 10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(1) and FAR 6.302-1)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 2, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: March 18, 2026
Evaluation
The Government intends to negotiate with Custom Biometric Wearables, Inc. as the only responsible source due to their proprietary eFit scanner technology and manufacturing capabilities. Interested parties may identify their interest and capability by responding with a capability statement. This information will be considered solely to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible.
Additional Notes
This notice is not a request for competitive proposals. A determination not to compete is at the Government's discretion. No phone inquiries will be entertained. Responses must be in writing via email to Ms. Amy Wescott. Companies interested in subcontracting opportunities should contact Custom Biometric Wearables, Inc.