How to bid on a drift collection vessel for the Department of the Army

What the Department of the Army is buying

The Department of the Army needs to purchase one new, self-propelled drift collection vessel. This is an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for commercial products. The vessel has specific dimensions: 70 ft 0 in molded length overall, 23 ft 0 in molded beam overall, 11 ft 0 in molded depth (at amidships), 7 ft 0 in design draft, and 27 ft 5 in air draft (from 7 ft 0 in draft).

This opportunity is set aside specifically for small business concerns. The award will go to the lowest-priced bidder who is responsive and responsible. There will be liquidated damages associated with this procurement, and a bid guarantee, payment, and performance bonding are required.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on July 07, 2026. Bids are due by September 08, 2026, at 2:00 PM EDT. All bids must be submitted electronically through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation Module online submission. No other transmission methods, such as email, fax, regular mail, or hand-carried submissions, will be accepted.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses in the shipbuilding and repair industry. The NAICS code for this acquisition is 336611, Ship Building and Repair. Firms with experience in constructing self-propelled vessels of the specified dimensions and capabilities should consider bidding.

Given the requirements for bid guarantee, payment, and performance bonding, firms should have the financial capacity to meet these obligations.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the solicitation documents, you will need to monitor the SAM.gov and PIEE websites. It is your responsibility to check these sites for any amendments, updates, or responses to questions. The Government will not maintain a mailing list.

Bids must be submitted electronically via the PIEE Solicitation Module. Ensure your bid does not contain classified data and avoid using hyperlinks. The only authorized method of submission is through PIEE.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all provisions and clauses incorporated by reference. The full text of these can be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov. Understanding these terms is crucial for a compliant bid.

Since award will be made to the lowest-priced bidder who is responsive and responsible, focus on submitting a competitive price while ensuring your bid fully meets all technical specifications and requirements. Double-check all dimensions and features against the solicitation details.

Pay close attention to the bonding requirements. Ensure you have the necessary bid guarantee, payment, and performance bonding in place or can secure them quickly. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to your bid being deemed non-responsive. If you have questions, contact the Primary Contract Specialist, Katie Sayers, in writing via email, including the solicitation number, company name, address, phone number, and point of contact.