Description:
THIS REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI) USING MARKET RESEARCH AND WILL BE USED FOR INFORMATIONAL AND PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL. THERE IS NO FUNDING ASSOCIATED WITH THIS ANNOUNCEMENT.
Purpose:
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) is conducting market research
to determine the feasibility of procuring Military Airboats. The Government is interested in market information pertinent to proven (e.g. existing vessels) vessel(s)/craft(s) for potential FMS sale(s). In particular, the Government desires information pertaining to small craft characteristics, design information, operations, estimated acquisition
costs, delivery time frames and past sales information. Designs and Licenses are not limited to corporations within the United States. Boat spares and associated training will be procured on separate line items and not a part of the overall vessel price.
Anticipated Scope of Work:
The Military Airboats will be used by foreign military/partner nations for various military operations as well as aid to civil authority. The preferred platform should have the seating capacity for seven (7) to ten (10) passengers to include the operator. The vessel should be well suited for navigating shallow waters, swamps and marshes. Furthermore, they should have the following capabilities but not limited to:
- Flat Bottom: The flat bottom design minimizes draft, allowing airboats to travel in very shallow water, often as little as a few inches.
- Swamps and Marshes: They are ideal for navigating through dense swamps, marshes, and other areas with abundant vegetation, where traditional boats would get stuck.
- Flood Rescue: Their ability to operate in shallow water and makes them valuable for rescue operations in flooded areas.
- Stability: Airboats are known for their stability, even in rough water, making them suitable for activities like wildlife viewing and photography.
- Speed: Airboats should reach speeds of 35+ mph.
- Minimal Impact on Ecosystems: The flat hull distributes weight evenly, minimizing damage to sensitive vegetation and wildlife habitats.
- Search and Rescue: Their ability to navigate difficult terrain and operate in shallow water makes them valuable for search and rescue operations.
- Military and Patrol Use: Airboats are used by various military and border patrol organizations for their versatility and ability to access remote areas.
NAVSEA is seeking responses from interested parties that can provide the airboat with the characteristics outlined above. Interested parties are encouraged to submit the following:
- Company name, Company Address, Point of Contact including name, title, phone, and email addresses.
- Identification and verification of company’s business size (i.e. small, large) relative to NAICS Code 336612
- Specification (or cutsheets) that describes the boats (in terms of hull equipment, engine specification, electrical system, command and control equipment, mechanical, etc.) being offered are of existing designs that meet the requirements listed above for the Military Airboats. The Government recognizes that interested parties may not have a platform that meets all the requirements. Interested parties are encouraged to respond to this RFI if minor deviations exist but could be readily modified.
- A description of the company’s recent relevant experience.
- Estimated total construction time from start of construction to delivery at the builder’s facility.
- Submission shall not exceed 10 pages. Pictures are recommended.
