USAF Prepo Vessel Time Charter
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, on behalf of the U.S. Air Force (USAF), has issued a Sources Sought Notice (RFI) to identify potential sources for a time-chartered, self-sustaining container ship. This RFI, titled "USAF Prepo Vessel Time Charter," aims to assess the availability and cost of a vessel capable of transporting and prepositioning cargo, including ammunition and hazardous materials, worldwide for military readiness. The government is evaluating options for an existing charter contract and is not soliciting offers at this time. Responses are due by 1400 Eastern Time on June 26, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a U.S. or foreign flag (to be reflagged U.S.) self-sustaining container ship. Key specifications include:
- Capacity: Capable of stowing 900 20-foot ISO containers.
- Delivery: Anticipated by August 11, 2026, at Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point (MOTSU), NC.
- Speed: Minimum of 16 knots, fully laden.
- Range: 13,000 nautical miles.
- Cargo Holds: Must be self-sustaining, outfitted with cell guides, and have operational environmental/climate control systems for the 900 containers. Government-furnished containers will be utilized.
- Equipment: Minimum of two (2) electric-hydraulic cargo cranes (30 LTON capacity each) and two (2) 27-ton auto locking spreader bars.
- Cooling System: A fixed water spray cooling system meeting SOLAS requirements for ammunition containers is mandatory.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Period of Performance: One eleven-month base period, from August 11, 2026, to July 11, 2027.
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage).
- Response Due: June 26, 2026, by 1400 Eastern Time.
- Published: June 9, 2026.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties must provide specific information including company details, a detailed vessel description, availability, daily rate, and any identified cost drivers. This information will be used solely for option evaluation and market research purposes, not for the award of a contract.
Additional Notes
This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or a promise to issue a solicitation in the future.