Towing and Salvage Vessel

The Military Sealift Command’s Service Ships Support Program Office, PM42, is seeking industry input through a sources sought notice for a U.S.-flagged, Jones Act-compliant vessel to conduct general-purpose ocean towing, salvage, and rescue operations in coastal and deep ocean environments, with a critical focus on supporting Navy-specific deep submergence rescue missions. The vessel must be capable of operating in Sea State 5 conditions and up to Sea State 6 for NATO Submarine Rescue System (NSRS) missions, while maintaining DP-2 equivalent dynamic positioning performance and accommodating extensive onboard systems including saturation diving support, remotely operated vehicles, hyperbaric evacuation units, and emergency life support infrastructure. Compliance with the U.S. Navy’s MOSHIP Specification Rev E, IACS classification, USCG regulations, and international standards such as IMO Resolution A.821(19) is mandatory, with inspections and acceptance governed by a tiered Gold, Silver, Bronze, Tin rating system based on technical compliance. The required vessel will feature an aft deck of at least 2,904 square feet with a 5T/m² load capacity, a 34-foot stern opening for rescue system deployment, integrated firefighting systems, helicopter deck capability, and accommodations for 40 or more embarked personnel including rescue teams and divers, with all systems subject to strict no-interference rules for acoustic rescue equipment. The solicitation, identified as SS-26-130, was posted on June 23, 2026, with responses due by July 7, 2026, and is issued as an option exercise under an existing program framework. Performance is expected to begin on August 2, 2026, and extend through August 1, 2027, with Virginia Beach, Virginia, designated as the homeport and primary area of operations spanning the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts and North Atlantic. Submissions must include a completed MOSHIP Survey Checklist and supporting documentation including vessel certifications, engineering drawings, and operational manuals referencing critical systems such as the Submarine Escape and Rescue Reference Manual, Emergency Oxygen Generators, and CO2 Scrubber Units. Respondents are required to provide their CAGE code, business size status, and evidence of financial capability and operational experience; however, no pricing data, CLINs, or contract value estimates are included as this is market research rather than a formal solicitation. Responses must be emailed to the primary point of contact, with