The Top 10 Navy NAICS Codes: Where to Find the Opportunities

Introduced in 1997, the NAICS code, or North American Industry Classification System, is a six-digit numerical code that categorizes businesses by their economic activity. Replacing the prior Standard Industrial Classification System (SIC), NAICS codes are a more efficient way to compare business statistics in North America, with thousands of industries currently recorded in over 20 different sectors. We recently examined the difference between NAICS and PSC codes - both which are vital to identifying and targeting various contract opportunities with the government.

In this blog, however, we'll dive into the top ten NAICS codes for the Department of the Navy that was recently released, and take a look at where the spending will go towards. Understanding these numbers can help you target your efforts, win more contracts, and grow your government sales.

The Top 10 NAICS Codes 

1. 336411 - Aircraft Manufacturing ($386.7B)
2. 336611 - Ship Building and Repairing ($311.5B)
3. 541330 - Engineering Services ($255.5B)
4. 334511 - Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing ($98.8B)
5. 336412 - Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing ($71.8B)
6. 236220 - Commercial and Institutional Building Construction ($68.9B)
7. 336413 - Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing ($62.9B)
8. 336414 - Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing ($58.8B)
9. 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) ($35.7B)
10. 332410 - Power Boiler and Heat Exchanger Manufacturing ($29.8B)

Key Insights Behind the Numbers

Aircraft Manufacturing (NAICS 336411) represents the Navy's largest area of contract spending with over $380 billion. It encompasses everything from the development of new manned and unmanned aircrafts to the production of replacement parts and critical upgrades. The aircraft programs rely on a vast network of subcontractors that provide avionics, engines, composites, sensors, and mission systems. Modernizing the Navy fleet comes with a dual challenge of meeting ambitious technology goals all while navigating a defense sector under pressure. It underscores the urgent need to maintain a skilled workforce and robust, specialized supply chain.

Like most of the defense industry, the Navy is also making large investments into cutting-edge technology. NAICS codes like 334511 and 336414 focus on the technological advancements into radar, sonar, missile systems, and space-based assets. These missions are critical for maintaining superiority into surveillance, targeting, and defense.

The Navy depends on engineering services as another cornerstone of Navy operations. Contractors under NAICS code 541330 provide critical services for base maintenance, next-generation ships, and advancing combat systems. With modernization being a top priority for the Navy, the demand for innovative engineering is only continuing to rise. We anticipate that spending under this NAICS code will grow in the coming years.

Ready to Get Started?

There are plenty of steps your business should take to win Navy contracts. First and foremost, make sure your business is registered under the right NAICS codes in SAM.gov. Additionally, it's important to stay compliant with the latest certifications - such as cybersecurity or other engineering ones - that are required by the Department of Defense to ensure you get the most out of your bids.

If you're not sure how to move forward, you're in the right place. Our research and proposal management teams are experts at guiding clients through the GovCon process. From finding the right NAICS codes, to constructing the complexities of proposals, contact us today and we can get started on your journey in the GovCon industry.