TWO (2) US FLAG TRACTOR-LIKE TUGS FOR NEW LONDON, CT

The U.S. Navy, through the Military Sealift Command in Norfolk, Virginia, is seeking market information for two U.S.-flagged, tractor-type tugs to support maritime operations in New London, Connecticut. The solicitation, identified as SS-26-102, is a sources-sought notice issued on April 29, 2026, with responses due by 2:00 PM Eastern Time on May 14, 2026, and must be submitted exclusively via email to designated points of contact. The tugs must meet rigorous performance standards, including a minimum forward bollard pull of 65,000 pounds and a transit speed of 10 knots in moderate weather, while operating safely in severe conditions up to Beaufort Force 10 winds and Sea State 5. Each vessel must be Jones Act compliant, U.S. flagged, and classified under IACS standards, with certifications from the U.S. Coast Guard including a valid Certificate of Inspection or Deck Cargo Officer certification. Critical equipment requirements include non-marking fendering with propeller guards, 2,000 GPM firefighting monitors with AFFF capability, 7-inch Kevlar or synthetic mooring lines with maintenance logs, and full navigation and communication suites compliant with USCG and FCC regulations. The tugs must carry up to 12 passengers in addition to crew, fit under the Thames River drawbridge with a maximum air draft of 30 feet, and maintain a saltwater draft of no more than 15 feet. The anticipated period of performance is a one-year base period from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, with a single 336-day option period. Contract type is Firm Fixed Price with Reimbursables, though no estimated contract value is provided as this is a market survey, not a solicitation for bids. Offerors must provide their CAGE code and declare their small or large business size status, but no socioeconomic certifications or subcontracting plans are required. Evaluation factors and formal award criteria are not specified, as this is a pre-solicitation effort to gauge industry capability and pricing, and no contract clauses, inspection procedures, packaging standards, or invoicing methods are formally included. All performance will occur in New London Harbor and surrounding waters extending to the continental shelf, where the Government retains final authority over acceptance and operational directives.