Bid guide
How to bid on a Special Mission Vessel (SMV) for the U.S. Navy
What the Navy is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Navy, specifically Portfolio Acquisition Executive Maritime PMS 300, is conducting market research for a Special Mission Vessel (SMV). This vessel, approximately 300-400 feet long, will be a multi-mission platform designed for maritime security operations.
The Navy is looking for a vessel capable of supporting helicopters, Class 2/3 unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned surface vehicles (USV), and small boats. It must also provide command and control capabilities, refueling services, and accommodate up to 59 personnel with at least 30 days of endurance. This is an opportunity for companies that can design and build new vessels, or acquire and modify existing ones, to demonstrate their capabilities to the Navy.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 29, 2026. The deadline for submissions is August 19, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET.
It is important to remember that this is market research only, not a solicitation for a contract. The Navy is gathering information to understand industry capabilities. Your submission will help the Navy in its planning for future acquisitions. There will be no contract awarded directly from this RFI.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for shipbuilding companies, naval architects, and marine engineering firms with expertise in designing, constructing, or modifying large vessels. Companies specializing in multi-mission platforms, particularly those with experience in aviation support, unmanned systems integration, and small craft handling, will find this relevant.
The Navy is interested in both new construction and the modification of existing vessels, so firms with experience in either approach are encouraged to respond. The vessel must meet specific regulatory and classification society standards, including 46 CFR Subchapter I or U, ABS XA1, and SOLAS, MARPOL, COLREGS, ICLL certificates.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full details of this RFI, you need to view the original source on the portal. Click the “View original source” button. 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 documents, though this is not always required. Once you have reviewed the RFI, you should submit a white paper describing your company's capabilities. This paper should detail your proposed acquisition approach (new build or modification), projected timelines, shipyard capacity, and a rough cost estimate. Clearly identify how your proposed vessel meets or exceeds the minimum technical specifications outlined in the RFI.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When preparing your white paper, focus on clearly demonstrating how your company can meet the Navy's specific technical requirements for the Special Mission Vessel. Highlight your experience with similar multi-mission platforms, especially those involving helicopter, UAS, USV, and small craft support.
Provide concrete examples of past projects that showcase your ability to deliver vessels with the required endurance, speed, seakeeping, and specialized facilities like flight decks, boat launch systems, and modular C2 spaces. If proposing a modified existing vessel, detail its current condition and the necessary modifications. For new builds, emphasize your design capabilities and shipyard capacity. A rough cost estimate, even at this early stage, will be helpful for the Navy's planning.
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 U.S. Navy, Portfolio Acquisition Executive Maritime PMS 300; the original posting controls.