V -- Time Charter for Deep Submergence Elevator Support Ship

The contract calls for a US-flagged vessel to provide specialized support services to the Navy's Deep Submergence Program near Norfolk, Virginia, beginning around October 2002. The contractor is responsible for supplying technical and industrial support for the operation of a contractor-provided Deep Submergence Rescue Elevator Support Ship. This vessel must be equipped to launch and recover a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle weighing approximately 9,000 pounds, utilizing a NAVSEA certified, man-rated elevator also provided by the contractor. Additionally, the support ship must be capable of supporting operations involving Unmanned Vehicles. The contract term is set at 12 months firm, with potential option periods ranging from four to twelve months. The solicitation number for this requirement is N00033-02-R-2003, issued by the Military Sealift Command within the Department of Defense. Interested parties were expected to respond by May 8, 2002, although this deadline may be adjusted. The full solicitation details are available through the Military Sealift Command’s website under the contracts section.