Announcement for Upcoming 2026 NSRP R&D Project Solicitations

The Department of the Navy Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) is preparing to release the National Shipbuilding Research Program (NSRP) Research Announcement 26 (RA-26) and Panel Project Announcement (PP-26), focusing on developing innovative shipbuilding technologies and processes. These solicitations aim to improve efficiency across U.S. shipyards through research and development projects. Key requirements include mandatory participation of at least one U.S. shipyard in each project, with multiple shipyard involvement preferred. The evaluation criteria will likely emphasize technological innovation, potential industry impact, and collaborative potential. Critical dates include the NSRP All Panel Meeting from February 25-27, 2025, summary proposal submissions for RA26 due in mid-July 2025, and Panel Project white papers due in late August 2025.

The pre-solicitation notice indicates no specific set-aside designations, and the opportunity is open to various entities including small businesses, non-profits, and academic institutions. For RA26, small businesses, non-profits, and academic institutions are exempt from the typical 50% cost-share requirement, though some cost sharing is encouraged to improve selection chances. Panel Projects have a funding ceiling of $200,000, and selections will be made in September 2025 for RA26 and November 2025 for Panel Projects. Potential offerors can submit project ideas year-round through an online form on NSRP.org, facilitating early communication with Executive Control Board member shipyards. The solicitations will be fully posted on SAM.gov and the NSRP website, with final proposal details to be announced in the coming months.