Department of Defense (DoD) officials said the agency has earmarked funds for three companies to increase domestic N95 mask production by over 39 million over the next 90 days.
DoD Spokesman Lt. Col. Mike Andrews said the DoD would invest $133 million toward the effort. The contracts have been awarded to 3M for $76 million, O&M Halyward for $29 million, and Honeywell for $27.4 million. The increased production ensures the government receives dedicated long term industrial capacity to meet the needs of the nation.
The scope of work calls for 3M to add 78 million units within six months, with an additional 13 million units per month by June – accelerating production by converting current equipment supplier into an N95 producer and expanding meltblown material production. O&M Halyward will add 25 million units within six months, with an additional 12.5 million masks every month after – completing their Health and Human Services (HHS) N95 order within 12 months vs. 18 months without the action. Honeywell will add 38 million units within six months, with an additional 12 million units per month after.
“In addition, they will be able to complete their HHS N95 order within 10 months vs. 13 months without this action,” Andrews said regarding Honeywell. “They will also accelerate a 2nd production line at the Phoenix, Arizona, plant to provide additional domestic capacity for long-term needs.”