Bid guide
How to bid on N3220525R6003 - Surtass-e for the DEPT of Defense
What the Navy is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Navy is seeking to charter a vessel to tow an acoustic array for its operations worldwide. This is a significant opportunity for vessel owners, as the contract includes a one-year base period, three one-year option periods, and one 11-month option period.
The selected vessel must be U.S.-flagged, or a foreign-flagged vessel that will be reflagged to U.S. prior to delivery. It needs to be capable of towing at 4–6 knots, 24 hours a day, for events lasting up to 60 days. Maintaining a directed heading within 5 degrees for extended periods at slow speed is critical for the acoustic system. The vessel must also meet ABS Ice Class D0 requirements and be capable of worldwide operations, including in the vicinity of the Marginal Ice Zone.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This solicitation was published on September 08, 2026. Responses are due by September 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your proposal before this deadline.
The deadline has been updated multiple times, so ensure you are working with the latest information. The final submission date is firm.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for companies that own or can acquire a vessel meeting the specific technical requirements for towing and acoustic array operations. Firms with experience in maritime transportation, particularly those with vessels capable of worldwide operations and ice-class certifications, will find this relevant.
The requirement for a U.S.-flagged vessel or the ability to reflag a foreign vessel before delivery is a key consideration. This falls under the transportation category, specifically for specialized maritime services.
How to respond to this solicitation
To access the full details and respond to this solicitation, you will need to use the official portal. Click the “View original source” link provided to open the opportunity.
If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though some bids allow access without an account.
Tips for a competitive response
Carefully review all attachments, especially the SF1449 and any amendments, as these contain critical details and updates. Pay close attention to the technical specifications regarding towing speed, heading stability, and ice class requirements.
Clearly demonstrate how your vessel meets or exceeds all specified capabilities, particularly the ability to maintain heading stability for extended periods. Provide evidence of your vessel's worldwide operational capability and its compliance with ABS Ice Class D0. Ensure your proposal addresses the fixed-priced time charter with reimbursable elements structure.
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 Navy; the original posting controls.