Dry Cargo TUGCON
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 Department of the Navy, specifically the Military Sealift Command (MSC) Norfolk, has issued a Sources Sought (N32205-SS-PM4-26-119) for market research. This request aims to identify qualified U.S. flag certified tugs capable of performing a single ocean-going tow of a U.S. Army Runnymede-class Large Landing Craft (LCU) from Fort Eustis, Newport News, Virginia, to Yokohama, Japan. This is an RFI to gauge price and availability and does not commit the government to a contract. Responses are due by June 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a tug to tow an LCU with a displacement of 1,087 LT, 174' length, 42' beam, and 9' max draft. The mission's laydays commence/cancel on July 24, 2026, with a total laytime of four days for the mission plus up to four days at the destination. Tug requirements include being built in 1970 or later, possessing sufficient bollard pull for a minimum tow speed of six knots in Beaufort 5 conditions, being fully bunkered, and having internet and satellite phone capabilities. Key deliverables and compliance:
- Adherence to the U.S. Navy Tow Manual (SL740-AA-MAN-010).
- A pre-tow conference at Fort Eustis, VA, 24 hours prior to tow.
- Contractor to obtain services of an Independent Marine Surveyor (IMS).
- Submission of a comprehensive towing package for approval, including bridle, emergency lines, navigation lights, NDT of fittings, tension calculations, speeds, weather limits, and a tow configuration sketch.
- Twice daily position reports in port, four times daily at sea.
- A detailed transit plan identifying ports of refuge.
- Contractor responsibility for Panama Canal transit coordination (reimbursable).
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought / Market Research (RFI)
- Product Service Code: V124 (Marine Charter For Things)
- Published Date: June 2, 2026
- Response Due Date: June 8, 2026, 11:00 AM ET
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties are requested to submit responses via email. Information sought includes the name/description of the tow vessel, confirmation of layday availability, lump sum and demurrage rates, estimated itinerary/days required, and business size. Respondents must indicate if they are a small business concern. This RFI is for market research purposes to inform future acquisition strategies.
Eligibility & Set-Aside
- NAICS Code: 483111 (Water Transportation)
- Small Business Size Standard: 1,050 employees While not a set-aside, the government is seeking to identify potential small business participation.
Additional Notes
An accompanying document, "General Arrangement - Inboard Profile.pdf," provides detailed visual information on vessel layout, structural details, and component placement, which may be relevant for understanding vessel configuration for this type of work. The primary point of contact is Matthew Price (matthew.r.price40.civ@us.navy.mil, 757-341-3348).