Ocean Towing, Salvage, and Rescue Vessel

The Military Sealift Command is seeking information on a U.S.-flagged, Jones Act compliant vessel capable of supporting ocean towing, salvage, and deep sub-surface rescue operations, specifically in coastal and open ocean environments along the East and Gulf Coasts of the United States and the North Atlantic. The vessel must meet stringent technical standards outlined in the Mother Ship (MOSHIP) Criteria Manual for U.S. Navy Submarine Rescue, Revision E, including a minimum aft working deck of 35 meters in length and 12.8 meters in width with a clear stern opening of 11 meters, free of protrusions exceeding 50.8 mm, and a total deck area of at least 5,000 square feet. It must be equipped with towing winches for 2½- and 3-inch wire, shark jaws compatible with chain sizes from 1-5/8" to 3-3/4", and a crane with a minimum 30,000-pound lifting capacity. The vessel must also provide a RHIB with at least an 80 HP motor and sustain embarked personnel for up to 10 days without resupply. Compliance with USCG Certificate of Inspection, IACS classification, and SOLAS safety requirements is mandatory, and dynamic positioning capability of Class II or mooring systems is required to achieve a Gold, Green/Silver, or Blue/Bronze MOSHIP grading. The solicitation, identified as SS-26-120, is a sources-sought notice with a response deadline of June 30, 2026, and is not a formal procurement but a market survey to determine industry interest and capability. Interested parties must submit a vessel description including COI, photographs, and specification sheets; the completed MOSHIP Survey Checklist from Appendix D; details of prior URC certification and SRDRS charter experience; small business size status; and confirmation of an active Secret-level facility clearance, which is a mandatory pass/fail requirement. Pricing must be submitted as a daily hire rate, which is considered payment in full for all vessel services, equipment, crew emoluments, and overtime, while port charges and fuel are reimbursable expenses. The proposed contract structure includes a 366-day base period beginning August 2, 2027, followed by four optional one-year periods extending through July 2, 2032, with the final option period shortened to 335 days. All proposals must