How to respond to MARAD’s strategic sealift vessel leasing RFI

What MARAD is asking industry

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is seeking industry feedback on the U.S. maritime industry’s ability to provide strategic sealift ships for potential future needs. The information will help the Government assess available sources and industry capabilities.

This is a Request for Information, not a bid solicitation. MARAD is not requesting proposals or promising a future contract.

Deadline and what it means

The notice lists a deadline of October 31, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. ET. However, its description says responses are due by 5:00 p.m. PDT on Monday, August 31, 2026. These dates conflict, and the stated August deadline is earlier than the publication date.

Check the attached RFI and the opportunity record for clarification before preparing a response. The notice says responses are invited by the deadline; it does not describe a public bid opening or contract award at that time.

Who this opportunity may suit

This information request may be relevant to U.S. maritime industry organizations that can provide information about the availability or technical capability to deliver strategic sealift ships. MARAD is seeking to identify qualified sources and assess industrial-base capability.

How to review the RFI

Click “View original source” above to open the opportunity on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal homepage, click it again to go directly to the opportunity.

A free account may be needed to view documents, though some opportunities can be viewed without one. Review the attached RFI in full for the response instructions.

Prepare a clear, useful response

Focus your response on the information MARAD is seeking: your organization’s relevant capabilities and what the U.S. maritime industry can provide for strategic sealift needs. Use specific, supportable details and follow the attached RFI’s instructions.

Clearly mark intellectual property, business confidential, or other privileged information at the bottom of each page. MARAD says responses may be reviewed by Government personnel and support contractors under nondisclosure agreements, and that responding costs are the respondent’s responsibility.