USNS COMFORT (T-AH 20) Mid-Term Availability (MTA)

The Military Sealift Command in Norfolk is announcing a Sources Sought Notice for contractors interested in a Mid-Term Availability (MTA) for the USNS COMFORT (T-AH 20), scheduled from January 15, 2026, to April 26, 2026, for a total of 102 days at the contractor's facility on the East/Gulf Coast. The notice serves as a request for firms to submit a capabilities package demonstrating their qualifications and experience in shipbuilding and repair, aligned with NAICS Code 336611. Interested parties must include their company profile, facility descriptions, employee numbers, and socio-economic categorizations. They are also encouraged to disclose any partnerships or joint ventures. Submissions are due by May 22, 2025, and will help the Government assess the availability of capable shipyards for this procurement. This sources sought is not a solicitation for proposals, and no contract will be awarded from this notice, emphasizing the government's preliminary exploration of potential bidders rather than an immediate contracting action.

The document outlines a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) related to the government solicitation N3220525R4087 for the USNS COMFORT (T-AH 20). It stipulates that the Government will provide access to technical data and computer software regarding the vessel, which is subject to strict compliance with DoD regulations concerning distribution and handling of sensitive information. The Offeror must appoint a corporate principal responsible for ensuring adherence to the NDA’s terms. Key obligations include using the data solely for proposal preparation and contract execution, restricting data dissemination, implementing organizational controls for data access, and ensuring any subcontractors comply with similar NDA terms. The Offeror must return or destroy the data upon project completion or award to another entity, certifying destruction in writing. Cooperation with the Government in recovering unauthorized disclosures is also mandated. This document serves as a critical framework for protecting sensitive technical data during government contracting processes and ensures compliance with federal regulations governing the handling of unclassified information.