Next Generation Hospital Ship T-AH(X) Request for Information (RFI)
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 DPAE Auxiliaries and PMS 385, is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) for the Next Generation Hospital Ship T-AH(X) program. This RFI seeks industry input to refine notional requirements for a fiscally responsible ship solution to replace the USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort. Responses are requested by July 15, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI is for informational and planning purposes only and is not a request for proposals. The Navy aims to gather information from experienced ship designers and shipbuilders to align notional requirements for the future hospital ship. The T-AH(X) will serve as the sole afloat Role 3 medical platforms, prioritizing improved vessel port access and patient transfer. A Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) contract is planned for award in FY27, covering preliminary design, shipyard selection, VCM oversight, and vessel delivery.
Information Requested
Interested parties are asked to provide:
- Vessel Cost Estimate: Rough order of magnitude (ROM) based on Attachment 1's notional requirements.
- Major Requirements Cost Drivers: Summary of cost drivers and recommendations for cost reduction.
- Perceived Risk of Program: Identification of concerns or risks.
- Potential Parent Hulls: Information on existing parent hulls or ship concepts that could accelerate design and reduce programmatic risks, including implications for Buy American Act compliance.
- Backlog and Construction Planning: (For shipbuilders) High-level planning for T-AH(X) construction within company backlog, estimated duration for design and construction.
Key Notional Requirements (from Attachment 1)
The T-AH(X) will feature:
- Vessel Characteristics: 10,000 NM range, 17 knots sustained speed, two simultaneous operating spots for aviation, beam <= 130 ft, endurance of 45 days, and patient transfer operable through Sea State 4.
- Medical Treatment Facilities (MTF): Functionally equivalent to a civilian Level II Trauma Center, including 6 Operating Rooms, 250 total beds (50 ICU, 200 ACW), and comprehensive support services (radiology, lab, pharmacy, etc.). An integrated internal patient transit system is required.
- Defense: CBRN defense capabilities.
- Reduced Requirements: The document also presents reduced requirements for industry feedback, such as removing ice strengthening and adjusting bed counts.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) for market research.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Identify Interest By: June 15, 2026.
- Responses Due: July 15, 2026.
- Published: June 1, 2026.
- VCM Contract Award: Planned for FY27.
Submission Instructions
Responses must be submitted via email to ryan.m.ksanznak.civ@us.navy.mil, hunter.c.rowan.civ@us.navy.mil, and austin.m.soares2.civ@us.navy.mil. Electronic responses only, compatible with Microsoft, no ".zip" files. No classified material. Export-controlled information must be marked CUI and encrypted. Proprietary information must be clearly identified.
Additional Notes
The Government may host an industry engagement event; a separate notice would be posted if held. This RFI does not obligate the Government to issue a solicitation or award a contract.