NOAA Class C Vessels
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 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), on behalf of the Platform and Infrastructure Acquisition Division (PIAD), has issued a Presolicitation Synopsis for the design and construction of up to six Class C research vessels. This notice is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. NOAA intends to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for this requirement. The synopsis closing date is March 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
This acquisition is structured in two phases:
- Phase 1 – Design: Anticipated awards to up to three contractors for an approximately 18-month design phase, covering the full design of six vessels.
- Phase 2 – Production (Options): The Government anticipates including option provisions for the production of up to six vessels, along with associated data deliverables, spares, and outfitting material.
The Class C vessels will support fisheries research and ecosystem surveys, including pelagic and benthic trawl operations. They must meet or exceed American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) standards, leverage proven commercial ship design, and incorporate modern, reconfigurable laboratories. Key mission support features include stern trawling systems, launch/recovery capabilities for small boats and uncrewed maritime systems (ROVs, AUVs), dedicated CTD and over-the-side operations areas, marine mammal observation areas, and accommodations for crew and scientific personnel. Scientific capabilities will include a standard suite of research transducers and sensors, with hull and centerboard designs minimizing noise and bubble sweepdown.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation Synopsis (future RFP anticipated to be Firm-Fixed-Price for Phase 1)
- Anticipated Duration: Approximately 5 years and 18 months (inclusive of design phase and all production options)
- Set-Aside: A small business reserve will be included for Phase 1, with one of the up to three Phase 1 awards reserved for a small business concern, provided adequate competition.
- Synopsis Closing Date: March 13, 2026
- Anticipated Contract Award Date: December 31, 2026
- Place of Performance: Contractor's Facility (within the United States)
Evaluation
For Phase 1, NOAA anticipates awarding up to three Firm-Fixed-Price contracts based on best value, considering price and non-price factors. Following Phase 1, one of the awardees will be selected for Phase 2 (Production).
Additional Notes
The Request for Proposal (RFP) will be issued electronically on SAM.gov under Proposed Solicitation Number 1305M226R0005. Interested parties are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for the RFP and any amendments. Due to volume, some reference documents may require a written request via email to the Contract Specialist after the RFP release. Offerors must be registered in SAM.gov and possess a valid Unique Entity ID (UEI) at the time of proposal submission. Prospective offerors are encouraged to register at SAM.gov and add themselves to the Interested Vendors List.
Contact: Mr. Chris Meconnahey (Chris.Meconnahey@noaa.gov) or Mr. Ashley Perry (Ashley.Perry@noaa.gov).