Bid guide
How to bid on the Large Class Hopper Dredge (LCHD-ESS) for DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, is seeking proposals to build a new 6,500-cubic-yard Large Class Hopper Dredge (LCHD-ESS). This new vessel will replace the aging Dredge ESSAYONS and will be used for various missions.
The new dredge must feature a diesel-electric power system and azimuthing thruster propulsion. The contractor will be responsible for delivering the vessel, its components, materials, and spare parts to U.S. Moorings in Portland, Oregon. Delivery is required 1,675 days after the contract award.
Key dates and deadlines
This solicitation was published on September 01, 2026. All proposals must be submitted by March 15, 2027, at 5:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Late submissions will not be considered. It is important to submit your proposal well in advance of the deadline to avoid any technical issues.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for experienced shipbuilding and repair firms, specifically those with expertise in constructing large, complex vessels with diesel-electric power systems and azimuthing thrusters. The relevant NAICS code is 336611, Ship Building and Repair.
This acquisition is not set aside for small business concerns. Firms must be prepared to provide bid guarantee, payment, and performance bonds, which are required for this procurement. This is also a Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) procurement under DO-A3 Ships.
How to respond
To access the solicitation, click “View original source” to open the opportunity on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid.
You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) system, as described in the solicitation.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Carefully review all specifications and requirements outlined in the solicitation, including any amendments. Ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your firm's capability to build a 6,500-cubic-yard hopper dredge with the specified diesel-electric power and azimuthing thruster propulsion.
Pay close attention to the delivery timeline of 1,675 days after award and confirm your ability to meet this schedule. Since bid, payment, and performance bonds are required, ensure you have the necessary financial backing or arrangements in place. Address any liquidated damages provisions mentioned in the solicitation. For any questions, contact Domenic Sestito or Michael Hunter via their provided email addresses.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of the Army; the original posting controls.