TUGCON; OPEN-OCEAN TOW MISSION
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) Headquarters Norfolk, is conducting a Sources Sought (market research) for an open-ocean tow mission. The government seeks information on the price and availability of U.S. Flag, Jones Act, ocean-going certified tugs capable of towing two specific vessels: the EX-Mobile Bay (CG-53) and the EX-PELELIU (LHA-5). This is a request for information only and does not commit the government to a contract. Responses are due by May 6, 2026, 10:00 AM ET.
Scope of Work
This mission involves one voyage consisting of two separate tows, conducted in accordance with the U.S. Navy Tow Manual (SL740-AA-MAN-010). The vessels to be towed are:
- EX-Mobile Bay (CG-53): Displacement 9,600 LT, Length 568', Beam 55', Max Draft 34'. Departure from Inactships Bremerton, WA. Scheduled for delivery 11 July 2026.
- EX-PELELIU (LHA-5): Displacement 39,000 LT, Length 820', Beam 106', Max Draft 27'. Departure from Pearl Harbor, HI. Scheduled for delivery 17 July 2026. Both tows will proceed to the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF), Barking Sands, Kauai, Hawaii. Tug requirements include being built in 1970 or later, sufficient bollard pull for a minimum 6-knot tow speed (5 knots in Beaufort 5), internet and satellite phone capability, and sufficient fuel capacity or detailed refueling plans. Contractors must obtain Independent Marine Surveyor (IMS) services and prepare a comprehensive towing package.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Product/Service Code: V124 - Marine Charter For Things
- Set-Aside: No set-aside specified; however, small businesses are encouraged to indicate their status.
- Response Due: May 6, 2026, 10:00 AM ET
- Published: April 30, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties are requested to provide:
- Company Information: Name, phone, email, small business standing, UEI.
- Vessel and Rate Information: Tug description, characteristics, COI/COD, photos, lump sum price, demurrage rate, itinerary, and earliest layday. Responses should be submitted via email to the point of contact. This market research will inform future acquisition strategies.
Additional Notes
The U.S. Navy Tow Manual (SL740-AA-MAN-10) is a required reference and is available online. The primary point of contact is Brandon Page (brandon.a.page.civ@us.navy.mil, 564-226-1239).