Special Time Charter for Marine Support Vessel
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, MSCHQ NORFOLK, has issued a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) for a Special Time Charter for a Marine Support Vessel (MSV). This Request for Information (RFI) aims to identify U.S. flagged, Jones Act vessels capable of supporting counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean. The information gathered will inform future contract requirements and pricing. Responses are due March 10, 2026.
Purpose & Overview
This SSN is market research to gather details on the price and availability of a U.S. flagged, Jones Act vessel to serve as a Maritime Support Vessel (MSV). The MSV will support counter-narcotics operations, with Mayport Naval Base, FL, designated as its homeport. The insights gained will assist the government in developing future requirements, pricing, and availability for an upcoming option under an existing contract. This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract.
Key Requirements / Vessel Specifications
- Vessel Function: Maritime Support Vessel (MSV) for counter-narcotics operations.
- Personnel Support: Must accommodate 29 sponsor personnel, with surge capacity for 44 for up to 30 days without re-supply.
- Area of Operations: Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean.
- Capabilities:
- Capable of carrying Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives (AA&E).
- Minimum transit speed of 10 knots.
- Capable of launching and recovering two small boats (up to 44' long, 12' wide, 35,000 lbs) in up to Sea State 3 conditions from a stern elevator.
- Capable of refueling partner nation small boats.
- Certification: Must be inspected or certified by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) under 46 C.F.R. Chapter I, Subchapter I.
- Space Requirements: Includes dedicated Operations Center (SECRET clearance required), Partner Nation Operations Center (PNOC), Communications Room (SECRET clearance required), physical training space, UAS TEU deck space, UAS launch/recovery space, weapons storage, ordnance storage, medical space, berthing for up to 44 personnel, and laundry facilities.
Future Contract Details (as indicated by SSN)
- Anticipated Contract Type: Firm Fixed Price with Reimbursable Elements.
- Anticipated Period of Performance: Base Period: May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027. Option Period One: May 1, 2027 – March 31, 2028.
Submission & Eligibility
- Information Requested: Interested parties must provide company details, vessel description, charter rates, fuel consumption, deck space, contract award to service start time, small business standing, subcontracting opportunities (for large businesses), and security clearance status.
- NAICS Code: 483111, with a small business size standard of 1,050 employees. Large businesses are specifically asked to provide details on subcontracting opportunities.
Response Details
- Response Due: March 10, 2026, by 1:00 PM Eastern Standard Time.
- Submission Method: Via email to YVONNE.ESCOTO.CIV@US.NAVY.MIL and DANNY.W.DAVIS1.CIV@US.NAVY.MIL.
- Contact: Yvonne Escoto (yvonne.escoto.civ@us.navy.mil) and Danny Davis (danny.w.davis1.civ@us.navy.mil).