# DoD Seeks to Pilot Smoking Cessation Program

The fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) as passed by the House includes a provision authorizing the Department of Defense (DoD) to conduct a one-year pilot program testing smoking cessation alternatives such as nicotine pouches and e-cigarettes for active-duty service members. This initiative aims to reduce tobacco use and related health costs, potentially saving up to $4 billion in defense spending. However, the Senate version of the NDAA does not include this provision, so the pilot's implementation depends on final congressional approval. Procurement professionals should note the potential for future contracts related to nicotine replacement products and health program services if the pilot proceeds.

- The pilot program would require DoD to procure various nicotine replacement products, including electric nicotine delivery systems, creating opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers in this niche market.
- The initiative reflects a growing focus on reducing healthcare costs through preventive health measures within military populations, signaling potential expansion of health-related procurement programs.
- Contractors specializing in tobacco cessation products and health services should monitor NDAA legislative outcomes and be prepared for possible solicitations if the pilot is authorized.
- The program's success could influence future DoD health procurement strategies, emphasizing cost-saving innovations in service member wellness programs.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Healthcare
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance, Contracting Vehicles
**Published:** September 20, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
- House of Representatives (House)
- U.S. Senate
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Senate Armed Services Committee

### Vendors
- Swedish Match USA (manufacturer)
- Philip Morris International (parent company of Swedish Match USA)

### Key Quotes
> Because pouches are fairly popular, it kind of makes sense to try them out and see what happens.
> — Dr. Ray Niaura, Tobacco-control researcher, New York University

> The evidence keeps building for e-cigarettes.
> — Dr. Brad Rodu, Professor of Medicine, University of Louisville

### Sources
- [Want to cut $4 billion in defense spending? Give troops Zyns and vapes](https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/op-eds/4730708/ndaa-section-707-military-smoking-defense-spending) - Washington Examiner
- [2FIRSTS | U.S. Military Could Test Nicotine Pouches and Vapes for Smoking Cessation as Washington Examiner Cites ZYN and Potential $4 Billion Reduction in Related Defense Costs](https://www.2firsts.com/news/us-military-could-test-nicotine-pouches-and-vapes-for-smoking-cessation-as-washington-examiner-cites-zyn-and-potential-4-billion-reduction-in-related-defense-costs) - 2Firsts