Time Charter Container Ship for United States Air Force (USAF)
ID: SS-25-041Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE NAVYMSC NORFOLKNORFOLK, VA, 23511-2313, USA

NAICS

Deep Sea Freight Transportation (483111)

PSC

TRANSPORTATION/TRAVEL/RELOCATION- TRANSPORTATION: MARINE CHARTER (V124)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Military Sealift Command (MSC), is seeking information on the availability and cost of a time-chartered container ship to support the United States Air Force (USAF). The ship must be capable of transporting ammunition in ISO containers, with a required delivery date of May 15, 2025, and must meet specifications including a minimum speed of 16 knots and a capacity for 900 ISO containers, while also being able to operate in extreme environmental conditions. This procurement is critical for ensuring military readiness and the efficient transportation of essential cargo, including explosive and non-explosive munitions, which must be stowed under controlled conditions. Interested vendors are invited to submit their responses by March 12, 2025, to the primary contact, Samantha Wooton, at samantha.r.wooton.civ@us.navy.mil, or by phone at 757-917-8071.

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    Posted
    The U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) seeks information on the availability and cost for a time-chartered container ship for the United States Air Force (USAF). This request is part of a market survey to evaluate options for an existing charter contract, not a commitment to contract. The ship must be capable of carrying ammunition in ISO containers, with delivery slated for May 15, 2025. Key specifications include a speed of at least 16 knots, the capacity for 900 ISO containers, and the ability to operate in extreme environmental conditions. The primary mission is to support the transportation and prepositioning of military cargo worldwide. Responses must include details on the ship's capabilities, availability, costs, and any alternatives, with an emphasis on factors affecting pricing. Interested vendors must submit their responses by March 12, 2025, to a designated contact. This initiative underlines the government’s focus on military readiness and ensuring transportation capacity for critical cargoes.
    The Military Sealift Command's RFP SS-25-041, dated March 3, 2025, addresses potential respondents' inquiries regarding the anticipated cargo for the USAF. The primary cargo will consist of explosive and non-explosive munitions, with a preliminary cargo plan provided, contingent upon final mission specifications and world events. It is crucial to note that the quantities, types, and configuration of the shipping containers may be adjusted before and during the contract period at USAF's discretion. All cargo is required to be stowed below deck under controlled environmental conditions to manage humidity. This document serves as a clarification for interested contractors, emphasizing the fluid nature of military logistics and the importance of readiness and adaptability in cargo management amid changing operational requirements.
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