Attachment 2 - Questions and Government Responses v3.pdf

RFP No. 70Z02326R93250001 Questions and Government Responses v3

Attachment 2 Date: 22 October 2026

Number Reference Questions Response

1 233 Will the USCG consider any fuel source other than gasoline for the outboard engines for RB-S III?

No. (Spec 200-1.1)

2 582-5.1 Section 582-5.1 calls the towline "¾-inch circumference," but Table 600-1 and 582-1.2.2 say ¾" diameter. Which is correct?

3/4 inch DIAMETER is accurate. The RFP spec has been updated

(Spec 582-5.1)

3 070-3 Where are the 8 full-load passengers located, and must they be seated?

The location of the 8 full-load passengers is a contractor decision and there is no requirement for dedicated seats for these passengers.

The SOW sections referenced throughout (040–097, and the "angular correction mandate" in 100-2.4) were not provided.

Specification section 100.2.4 references SOW section 085-7.1.4.1, which discusses the angular correction.

5 582-2.2 582-2.2 cites ABYC H-40 Table I, but H-40 is not in the 042-2 reference list.

ABYC H-40 has been added to the Spec (Spec 042-2.1.1.17)

6 310-1.1 Is 310-1.1's idle alternator requirement intentional, given typical outboard output at idle?

Yes, It is intentional. (Spec 310-1.1)

7 402-1.2 Does 402-1.2 permit engine data on the MFDs through an isolated gateway?

No. The propulsion system (engine data) shall not be connected to the navigation system. (Spec 402-1.2)

8 100-2.6.3 What criteria will the KO use to approve bent-plate structure under 100-2.6.3?

Use of bent plate below deck will require information to support the reason bent plate is being used, the required strength of the detail, and the strength of the bent material and surrounding structure.

(Spec 100-2.6.3)

9 070-2.2 Does 070-2.2's 37' "on trailer" length include the trailer tongue?

Yes. (Spec 070-2.2)

10 079-1.1.1 For the application of ISO 12217-1, paragraph 6.8, Annex F, Table F.3, and Annex G, Table G.2, are integral watertight air chambers considered “flotation elements” and subject to the restriction in paragraph

079-1.1.1

Yes, Watertight air chambers are subject to the restriction of 079-

1.1.1.

11 079-1.1.1 The restriction in paragraph 079-1.1.1 will discourage watertight subdivision.

The USCG acknowledges the air chamber restriction makes watertight subdivision less useful for calculations. The requirement is not intended to discourage watertight subdivision.

12 079-1.1.1 Is the Coast Guard aware of an operational incident in which progressive flooding of the entire vessel resulted in the loss of an RB-S or demonstrated that watertight subdivision and reserve buoyancy was inadequate.

The RB-S III acquisition team is not aware of an incident.

13 079-1.1.1 How does the Government intend to account for changes between the RB-S Demonstrators and the

RB-S III resulting from the 079-1.1.1 requirements.

The USCG understands the RB-S Demonstrator requirements were different than the RB-S III requirements and the Demonstrator boats may not have met the RB-S III Spec 079-1.1.1 requirements.

14 079-1.1.1 If the required safety and survivability objectives can be demonstrated through ISO 12217-1 compliant designs, would the Government consider allowing the flotation methodologies recognized by that standard

The Coast Guard requirement limits the methods that can be used to meet the ISO requirements. The Coast Guard will not entertain alternatives that do not meet the specification requirements.

15 073-1.1 Would the USCG conduct a sound level test on an

RB-S Gen II to establish a baseline and provide objective data to validate the RB-S III 85 dB requirement.

The requirement has been revised to 'below 86 dBA', consistent with performance observed on Coast Guard boats. (Spec 073-1.1)

16 261-1.3 Please confirm the definition of "fire safe"? Does the

USCG use of ‘fire safe’ mean the definition according to API (American Petroleum Industry) 607 requirements for use in applications and environments where the valve may be exposed to fire and combustibles, or does the requirement call for temperature actuated automatic shut off valves?

The valve shall meet API-STD-607 requirements and does not need to automatically shut off. (Spec 261-1.3)

Spec 261-1.3 will be revised to “… shall be fitted with a fire-safe shutoff ball valve complying with API-STD-607...”

17 332-1.2 Does the blackout requirement apply to alarms, for example bilge pumps. If the bilge pumps automatic operation is activated while in blackout mode due to water ingress, can the dash mounted warning LED illuminate or should this be included in the black out requirement?

Yes, the blackout requirement applies to and includes visual alarm indicators. In the example, the LED should not illuminate while in blackout mode. (Spec 332-1.2)

18 332-4.3 Do all four flood lights require individual dimming function or can they be grouped to a single switch?

All four floodlights are independently controlled and shall be independently dimmed. (Spec 332-4.1 through 4.3)

19 405-2.3 Can antennae be mounted to additional frames/masts/structures which are through bolted to the cabin structure. Example: Antenna through bolted to a radar arch. Is the purpose of this requirement to ensure the antenna mount can be easily replaced or is the focus on the specific mounting location.

The antenna mount may be bolted to frames / masts / structures.

The purpose is to provide a secure mount for the antenna that is resistant to the antenna or antenna mount coming loose during operations. (Spec 405-2.3)

20 565 Will the USCG re-consider the use of automatic trim control for the RB-S III?

No, an active automatic trim control system is not allowed (Spec

565-1.1)

21 114-2 Is a hand-held power tool (e.g. drill) considered a hand tool.

Specification 114-2.1 will be revised to include the use of hand held power tools.

22 131-1.1 Would deck stiffeners near the perimeter of the deck opening satisfy this requirement in lieu of an insert plate or coaming?

No, covers may be stiffened near the perimeter, openings shall be reinforced at the opening. (Spec 131-1.1)

23 191-1.1 Will the Coast Guard consider foam blocks instead of bags if they are stowed, labeled and secured in the same manner described in 191-1, replacing the word bag with "block".

Specification 191-1.1 allows blocks (unbagged foam) in limited situations. The specification will be revised to only allow unbagged foam in voids. The other allowance for unbagged foam will be removed from Spec 191-1.1.

24 332-3.1 Does the Coast Guard require towing lights in accordance with Rule 24?

Yes, Spec 332-3.1 requires towing lights and was revised to allow them to be removable.

25 634-2.1 634-2.1 requires a "non-skid surface meeting MIL-

PRF-24667C, Type XI, Composition PS" which uses a self-adhering ("peel-and-stick") installation method.

634-3 states the interior cabin deck covering requirements but does not address its installation. Can this be bonded to the deck surface similar to 634-2.1 or is it required to be removable?

The interior deck covering may be a bonded installation if installed

IAW OEM requirements for installation on an AL boat.

26 634-2.1 634-2.1 requires a "non-skid surface meeting MIL-

PRF-24667C, Type XI, Composition PS" which uses a self-adhering ("peel-and-stick") installation method.

Can insulation be installed using a similar method if the insulation meets the requirements of 073-1.4?

Self-adhering (peel-and-stick) methods may be used to attach insulation mounting hardware (e.g., hangers or stand-offs). Adhering insulation material directly and semi-permanently/permanently to plating with adhesive is prohibited.

Spec 073-1.3.1 will be modified to prohibit installation of sheet materials on plating that hinder inspection and a new section will be added for insulation material used for other than Noise and

Vibration.

27 078-7 & 634-2.1 634-2.1 requires a "non-skid surface meeting MIL-

PRF-24667C, Type XI, Composition PS" which uses a self-adhering ("peel-and-stick") installation method.

Can this type of adhesive be added to the list of acceptable adhesives and coating systems by 078-7?

Spec 078-7 was revised and allows use of PSA adhesives

28 441-4 Please clarify if one user must monitor multiple radio circuits simultaneously.

Is selection/listening/transmission on one radio circuit at a time acceptable?

Spec 441-4 was updated to add the simultaneous transmit and receive over the intercom and one other selected radio voice circuit for each BCCS station.

29 070-2.2, 070-2.4, 070-2.5

Measurement conditions for the principal dimensions:

(a) length overall in water is measured with the engines fully tilted down at rest, the taffrail in place and the fender in its normal operating condition; (b) draft at full load is measured with the engines fully down and any trim devices retracted; (c) height on trailer is measured on the contractor-furnished trailer with hinged masts and arches lowered.

(a) See spec section 070-2 – length is with the fender deployed

(meaning fully inflated), lowered engines, and taffrail in place.

(b) Draft is measured with the engines lowered and at full load weight condition. Trim devices are not mentioned – if they extend below the lowered engines – they increase draft.

(c) Yes – height is measured on the Contract Line Item X0001 provided trailer, and consistent with Spec 170-1.2 with the mast secured in the lowered position.

30 042-1.19, 051-7.1 Trailered weight condition includes boat outfit and operational spares carried aboard, the fender in its trailering (deflated) condition, and the trailer's spare wheel, stowage box and accessories required by 910-

1.1.20.

The trailered weight is the RB-S III lightship weight condition plus fuel and trailer. Lightship weight condition includes outfit (i.e., Table 600-1, SPEC 670-3.1 tool kit, Table 670-1). Trailer includes mounted accessories and stowage (SPEC 910-1.1.20).

31 078, 100-1.1, 100-2.6.3, Specification 100-1.1 requires the hull structure material to be aluminum. Please confirm the scope of the term hull structure as used in 100-1.1 and 100-

2.6.3, specifically whether it comprises the shell plating, transom, main deck, watertight bulkheads, frames, longitudinals and machinery foundations, and whether the material selection for the cabin, console, hatches, doors, masts and similar structures above the main deck is governed by Sections 078, 150 and 167 and by ISO 12215-5 for the material used.

The Coast Guard will not define hull structure. Your definition looks accurate but should not be considered limiting. The hull structure shall be aluminum.

Material selection for the items identified is identified in the sections you reference. Materials should be selected based on suitability for the RB-S III operating environment and service life.

32 114-1.2, Q&A 11 Q&A 11 permits an air bladder as part of the fender.

Please confirm (a) that

Is 114-1.2 is satisfied by a fender whose primary energy absorption is closed-cell foam with an integral air chamber; (b) whether the 8 ft 6 in deflated beam is measured with the chamber fully deflated or at a stated residual pressure; (c) that the inflated beam may be used for both the ISO 12217-1 stability assessment and the ISO 12215 structural calculations; and (d) whether the required pump may be electric and powered from the boat's electrical system.

(a) Yes (Spec 114-1.2)

(b) The beam requirement of 8’ 6” is measured with the air chamber deflated. (Spec 070-2.3.1)

(c) The inflated beam may be used for stability and structural calculations. The air in the chamber shall not be used as a flotation element to meet ISO 12217-1. (SOW 085-7.1.2.3.1)

The required pump shall be appropriate for maintaining the collar inflation and may be manual or electric, and may be powered from the boat’s electrical system (Spec Table 600-1)

33 079-1.1, 079-1.2, 079-1.3

For the ISO 12217-1 Category C Option 4 assessment with twelve persons at 100 kg, please confirm (a) whether persons are placed at the designated seating positions or distributed across all accessible areas including the working decks, side decks and cabin top, given that 079-1.3 excludes only the surface over the fender from the crew area; (b) which tests the

Government will require to be performed physically on the demonstrator and which may be shown by calculation; and (c) whether the 8CL and 80 + 20CL test weights of 079-1.2 apply to the flotation tests only or to all tests using those quantities.

Personnel are specified at 220 lbs (100 kg). (Spec 079-1.2)

• Location of personnel may be specified in the ISO requirement.

If not specified, location of personnel other than crew (in seated locations) is at the contractor’s discretion.

• SPEC 079-1.3 restricts the contractor from limiting what is considered crew area for ISO 12217-1. The language “over the fender” will be revised to “the fender”.

• Table 2 in ISO 12217-1 can be shown by calculation or by test, the Government does not require any of them to be shown by test.

• The 8CL applies to F.3 Swamped stability test, and 80 + 20CL applies to the F.4 Swamped buoyancy test. (Spec 079-1.2)

34 073-1.1, 513 Please confirm the measurement method for the 85 dBA limit in 073-1.1 (reference standard, microphone position at head level of each seat, sea condition, whether the ventilation fans of 513-2 are operating, and whether the limit applies at maximum continuous engine speed or at 45 knots).

Spec 073-1.1 provides the requirements for the noise level measurement. Which equipment is in use during the test is at the contractor’s discretion and should be identified in the test procedure.

(Spec 073-1.1, SOW 092-5.2)

35 565-1.1 Please confirm that both interceptors and trim tabs are acceptable under 565-1.1, and whether the requirement for manual adjustment to a neutral position on failure means adjustment without electrical power, or adjustment by a separate manual control that does not rely on the primary trim controller.

Both interceptors and trim tabs are acceptable.

Adjustment to neutral position should be manual (unpowered).

36 Acquisition strategy, Phase I and Phase II

Please describe the Phase I evaluation factors and their relative weights; the Phase II evaluation methodology, including which performance measures are scored and whether price is re-evaluated at the

Phase II down-select; whether the 180 calendar days for delivery of the demonstrator (SOW 044-1.1) run from IDIQ award or from issuance of the Phase II delivery order; and whether Phase II demonstrators are retained by the Government or returned to the contractor.

These questions have been addressed in the RFP released on 30

September 2026. The disposition of the demonstrators will not be determined until after completion of the down-select.

37 SOW 044, 068, 081,

091, 097

Please confirm which SOW requirements apply to the

Phase II demonstrator: whether the Open Hull

Inspection (068), the incline test (097), the full acceptance test program (091), the TDP (085) and

Interim Contractor Logistics Support (080) apply to the demonstrator, to the second production boat, or to both.

The SOW requirements apply for the full contract.

The Open Hull Inspection is required for the Second Boat, and not required for the Demonstration Boat (first boat ordered). (SOW 068-

1).

The incline test is one of the tests required for the Second Boat and not required for the Demonstration Boat (first boat ordered). (SOW

097).

SOW section 091 and 092 require Government edits to improve clarity and will be addressed in a revision to the RFP.

The intent is for every boat to go through the Acceptance Testing listed in 092-5, meeting the requirements of 092-1, 092-2, and 092-

4.

With the exception of the requirement for USCG approval of procedures prior to AT in 092-3.1.1, the documentation requirements of section 092-3 apply to every boat. The 092-3.1.1 requirement for AT Procedure approval does not apply for the

Demonstration Boat (first boat ordered). The highlighted SOW section references may change with the revision (renumbering) to

SOW sections 091 and 092.

The TDP (SOW Section 085) has two phases, a limited number of deliverables for the first boat, and a second package with the follow-on order (see List of Deliverables).

Interim Contractor Logistics Support (SOW Section 080) will be ordered as needed.

38 400 series, 070-3.4.1 Please identify which items will be Government furnished and which contractor furnished for the demonstrator and production boats, including SINS

Generation II components, P25 multiband radios, the

Commercial VHF-FM/DSC radio, the BCCS, the

EO/IR camera and the M240B weapon mounts. For contractor-furnished items, please provide the approved part numbers or vendors and current lead times so they can be reconciled with the 180-day demonstrator delivery.

There is no Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) for the RB-S

III program.

There is limited Government specified equipment listed in specification sections 424, 441-1, 441-2, 441-3 and 444-1. The manufacturer and part numbers are included.

If a contractor has trouble meeting the delivery requirements due to availability of Government specified equipment, the KO should be notified for resolution.

39 Past performance For the past performance factor, please state what the

Government will consider relevant in terms of vessel size, hull material, mission and contract value, and whether the past performance of major subcontractors and teaming partners will be evaluated alongside that of the offeror.

The Government is not using Past Performance as a factor. There is a FAR 9.104-1 responsibility determination addressed in Section

M.2.c of the RFP.

40 SOW 085-1.4,

data rights

Please state the data rights the Government expects to receive in the Technical Data Package, the 3D model and the native calculation and analysis files required by SOW 085-1.4, and whether contractor-developed design tools, process data and supplier proprietary data may be delivered with limited or restricted rights markings.

Section I of the RFP includes FAR 52.227-14 RIGHTS IN DATA-

GENERAL (MAY 2014), ALTERNATE II, ALTERNATE IV,

ALTERNATE V (DEC 2007). This clause identifies the data rights applicable to this RFP.

41 Domestic content Please confirm the domestic-content and country-of-origin requirements that will apply to aluminum plate and extrusions, outboard engines, electronics and other major components (Buy American Act, Trade

Agreements Act, or other), in addition to the requirement that the boats be built in the United

States.

Please refer to Section I, FAR 52.225-1, Buy American-Supplies, and Section K, FAR 52.225-2, Buy American Certificate, for the applicable domestic-content and country-of-origins requirements.

Offerors are responsible for proposing supplies and components consistent with requirements of the solicitation.

42 Production quantities and facilities

Please provide the anticipated delivery quantities by ordering year for the USCG boats and for the other-agency variants so that production capacity can be planned, and confirm whether the demonstrator and production boats may be built at different facilities operated by the contractor.

Section J Attachment 1 Pricing Schedule of the RFP provides an estimated ordering schedule. It does not specify which of the 500 boats are for Other Government Agencies (OGAs).

The RFP does not limit the number of production locations. If multiple locations are proposed, the proposal should address the impact on configuration management.

43 Other-agency variants For the up to 100 modified variants for other Federal agencies, will the variant requirements be included in the solicitation, and is the Phase I conceptual design expected to demonstrate accommodation of those variants?

The modification of the RB-S III for OGA’s is not known. If OGA interest is expressed a contract modification will address incorporation of the changes. Proposals are not expected to address modifications for the OGA variant.

44 200-1.1, 200-1.2 Does the Government require or prefer commonality of outboard engine make and model with the existing

RB-S II fleet or with other Federal fleets, and will engine selection, service history or dealer support network be an evaluation consideration?

The Government does not require or prefer commonality with the

RB-S II Fleet.

Equipment selection, service history, and supportability are considered as part of the technical evaluation.

45 233-1.1, SOW 091 Will the Government accept: (a) a current EPA

Certificate of Conformity for the engine family issued under 40 CFR Part 1045, or (b) a statement of compliance from the engine manufacturer supported by emission test results, calculations or operating data obtained in accordance with the Part 1045 test procedures to satisfy the Specification 233-1.1 requirement?

Does the certificate or statement need to be current on the date of delivery of each boat, and does the requirement extend to engine control calibrations, fuel system components and other items installed or configured by the Contractor after the engine leaves the manufacturer.

Either is acceptable for meeting the Spec 233-1.1 requirement.

The certificate or statement required by 233-1.1 shall cover engines as purchased from the OEM and must be valid on the date of delivery of each boat.

46 Phase II In-Water

Demonstration

Will the Phase II In-Water Demonstration use the same scenarios as the 2025 to 2026 RB-S

Demonstrator event, and will the operator observations published in the 16 July 2026 RB-S

Demonstrator Feedback notice be used as evaluation considerations? If so, please indicate which of those observations will carry weight so that they can be addressed in the Phase I design.

The scenarios for the RB-S III are included in section L of the RFP and are not the same as the January 2026 RB-S Demonstrator contracts.

Selected operator observations from the RB-S Demonstrator contracts have influenced and been incorporated into the RB-S III specification.

RB-S III proposals should address the RB-S III requirements (SOW and Spec) and Factors (Section L and M).

The July 2026 Demonstrator Feedback provides Coast Guard observations of features included on the RB-S Demonstrator boats.

If not incorporated into the RB-S III RFP, they are not requirements of the RB-S III.

47 Pricing Schedule Is the list of deliverables different for CLIN 0006 and

CLIN 1006

Yes, the list of deliverables is detailed in Section C, Attachment 4:

LIST OF DELIVERABLES. The Column Titled ‘Pricing Sheet’ establishes which deliverables are associated with each CLIN. The

‘Pricing Sheet’ column should be examined closely in establishing

CLIN 0006 and 1006 pricing. The ‘Pricing Sheet’ column header will be re-titled to align with other language in the RFP (i.e. Pricing

Schedule / CLIN).

48 Contract / DPAS Will orders be DPAS rated? If so, what DPAS rating is expected?

Orders will not be Federal Priorities and Allocations System (FPAS) rated. This can be re-considered post award.

49 RFP Section H – H.2 H.2. Request for finance payments is limited to no more than once per month. However, if 60 boats per year are to be delivered, weekly payment requests would be anticipated. Will all deliveries in a given month be grouped into one payment?

Section H.2 allows for finance payment up to once per month.

Section H.3 allows for submission of final payments on acceptance.

50 RFP Section

H – H.2.(a).(1)

H.2.(a).(1) Milestone 1: What material meets the definition of LLTM?

There is no requirement associated with categorization as LLTM

The only requirement is LLTM is limited to 30% of the value of the

CLIN, and invoicing for LLTM must be substantiated as indicated in

Section H.2.

51 Specification 100-1.1 Specification 100-1.1 requires an aluminum hull. Will the Government accept fiberglass composite hulls built to ISO 12215 Category B with equal or better structural performance, either for the RB-S III or for the OGA variant (CLINs X017/X018)?

No. A fiberglass or composite hull does not meet the RB-S III requirements.

52 Please describe the anticipated mission, size, and requirements of the Non-Recurring Engineering for

OGA Variant (J-1, CLINs X017/X018). Which agencies are expected to order it, and will its requirements differ from the base specification?

The variant is included in case OGA’s want to order. It is not

“expected” but available.

If an OGA elects to order, the specifics of any changes or modifications will be established through a contract mod.

Any changes will be limited will not be changing the “size” of the

RB-S III.

The non-recurring engineering cost to develop the OGA variant will be negotiated if there is OGA interest. The Cost of developing an

OGA variant should not be priced in your price proposal.

53 Will the Government publish an interested vendors or potential subcontractor list for this solicitation so small manufacturers can contact prospective offerors about teaming?

No, the Government will not publish an interested vendors or potential subcontractor list.

54 191-1.1

This paragraph makes a clear distinction between floatation bags and block floatation. Subsequent parts of 191-1 refer specifically to floatation bags. What requirements apply to block floatation?

The same material requirements apply to bagged and blocked foam.

Similar to the bagged foam – if the blocks touch metal surfaces, the surfaces must be treated as a faying surface. Standoffs may be used to prevent faying surfaces. Recommend review of the response to question 23 which indicates the specification will be revised to limit the use of block foam to voids.

55 320-1.1 IP65 panels are typical of open boats. Is it the intent if the panel is within an enclosed cabin?

Yes, IP65 panels are required.

56 582-3.1.2 Can the unwelded yield strength of the material be used in areas not in way of the heat affected zone?

No.

57 625-1.2 Is the IP rating for the wiper motors to be from the outside of the boat for internally mounted wiper motors?

The wiper motors are required to be IP65 rated, regardless of their mounting location.

58 660-1.1 Will seats within the same model line from a single manufacturer, but with varying configurations of mounting provisions, be acceptable?

Yes.

59 660-1.1.1 Can the 2” “dynamic clearance” be interpreted to be clearance between seat components that move dynamically during shock mitigating travel, but not to seat components that are fixed to the boat or only move when adjusting the position of the un-occupied seat?

The 2” clearance requirement is for dynamic movement of the seat.

The 2” clearance does not need to be maintained while making seat adjustments. while making seat adjustments.

60 660-1.1.1 Does the 2” clearance requirement apply to weapon mounts and stowed weapons?

No.

61 660-1.1.2 This section implies the presence of an articulating seat back. Are the seats required to be provided with a reclining back?

A reclining back is not required or prohibited.

There is no requirement for hoist or lift fittings. Was that a deliberate omission?

Yes it was deliberate. There are no requirements for lift points.

If lifting slings were to be required, would they be considered an outfit item with the weight and stowage calculations?

Lifting slings are not required.

There’s no requirement for a system capable of monitoring shock or vibration. Given the Coast

Guard’s recent attention to brain health, does the

Coast Guard anticipate adding this requirement?

The RB-S III requirements do not include shock or vibration monitoring. Results of the brain health initiative may result in future modifications.

65 Could the Government confirm whether CAD/TDP development can be subcontracted independently of vessel construction, with the prime contractor remaining responsible for the complete deliverable?

The Government confirms that CAD/TDP development may be subcontracted independently of vessel construction, provided the prime contractor remains solely responsible for contract compliance, quality assurance, and all final deliverables.

Because this procurement is set aside for small business, the prime contractor is required to comply with all performance of work requirements. Offerors are directed to FAR 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting, and must ensure their proposal conforms to the requirements of that clause.

66 70-3.3.3 If the height adjustment of the seats is sufficient that the aft seats can be adjusted to a height 3" above the seated position for the 95th percentile male complying with ABYC H-1 visibility standards, can all seats be mounted at the same deck level?

No, the base of the aft seats shall be 3 inches higher than the base of the forward seats.

67 660-1.1.8 Can the fore and aft position adjustment of the seats be excluded from the requirement for seat adjustment controls to be reachable and usable by the seated occupant? If not, seat options with fore and aft adjustment on a deck mounted track will need to be excluded from consideration.

Use of a track mounting system to provide variable mounting position is not considered a seat adjustment control and does not need to be reachable and usable by the occupant from the seated position.

68 103-1.4

191-1.1

103-1.4 provides criteria under which inaccessible voids are acceptable. 191-1.1 allows for block floatation material in voids. Can these two requirements together be understood to mean that block floatation may be installed in inaccessible voids where it would not be removable?

The term inaccessible void has been removed from the specification and section 103-1.4 has been reserved.

Specification Section 191 has been revised to allow unbagged foam blocks in voids, provided it can be removed without damage, and faying surfaces are addressed.

69 436-1.1 In what spaces are gasoline fumes expected to be detected by the alarm system?

The gasoline fume detection requirement is in accordance with

ABYC A-14.

70 071-1.2

103-1.4

436-2.1

529-1.2

Can inaccessible voids meeting the requirements of

103-1.4 be excluded from the requirement for bilge access in 071-1.2? Would such inaccessible voids be subject to the bilge pump and monitoring requirements in 436-2.1 and 529-1.2?

The term inaccessible void has been removed from the specification and section 103-1.4 has been reserved.

Specification Section 071 has been revised to include access requirements for voids.

Voids are not excluded from the requirements of Specification

Sections 071, 436, and 529.

71 441-4.2.2

If the headsets are provided with rechargeable batteries and battery chargers, is it intended that each headset be provided with its own battery charger?

No, just one charger

72 191-1.1 Is the restriction on block foam in spaces exposed to water intended to limit its use in accessible bilges that could occasionally see water? If so, will it be acceptable to install block floatation in an accessible bilge if it is coated to protect it from water?

The specification is being revised to allow two options for foam.

Installed in bags or installed in a void.

73 Section M

Section M criteria lists "stability" in both Factor 1

(Mission Capability - Seakeeping and Stability) and

Factor 2 (Structural Details, Stability, and

Construction). Can the Coast Guard please clarify how the stability evaluation under Factor I will differ from the stability evaluation under Factor II? It is not clear how "stability" qualifies as Production &

Management under Factor II.

Stability in Factor 1 is associated with features that provide or improve dynamic stability.

Factor 2 is associated with how are you going to meet the specific

USCG stability requirements based on modification of the commercial ISO standard

74 H.11(b) Section H.11(b) states that the maximum aggregate ceiling of the IDIQ "will be inserted at time of award."

Will the Government provide an estimated ceiling, or a ceiling methodology, before the proposal due date?

The ceiling bounds a ten year commitment and affects how offerors structure pricing across the five quantity tiers.

The Government will not provide an estimated ceiling prior to the proposal due date. The total aggregate IDIQ ceiling will be established based on the successful Offeror's Total Evaluated Price

(TEP) and inserted at the time of award. Offerors should structure pricing based on the instructions provided in the solicitation. Any future adjustments to contract terms, pricing, or limits post-award will be executed in accordance with the standard FAR clauses incorporated herein.

75 F.1 and SOW 044-1.1 Section F.1 states the demonstrator boat is due within

[225] calendar days and the first boat under a follow-on order within [210] calendar days, both shown in brackets. The question at Attachment 2 Number 36 refers to 180 calendar days for delivery of the demonstrator under SOW 044-1.1. Please confirm the governing delivery duration for the demonstrator and for follow-on orders, and whether the bracketed values in Section F.1 will be finalized by amendment.

The first boat is due within 225 days, follow on boats are due within

210 days. The reference to 180 days in question 36 will be updated to 225 days in the SOW.

76 H.5 Section H.5 shows the baseline index value for economic price adjustment as "[Insert value at time of award]." Will the baseline be the BLS PPI

WPU102501 value published at time of award, or the value in effect at proposal submission?

It will be the value in effect at time of award.

78 H.5 Section H.5 weights economic price adjustment 100 percent to BLS PPI WPU102501, Aluminum Sheet, Plate and Foil Manufacturing, and caps adjustment at

10 percent of original unit price. Outboard propulsion is a comparable share of unit cost over a ten year ordering period and carries independent escalation.

Will the Government consider a second index component for propulsion, or confirm that propulsion escalation is borne entirely by the contractor?

A second index for propulsion is not part of the solicitation.

79 I, FAR 52.219-28 FAR 52.219-28 in Section I leaves the NAICS code and size standard blank. Please confirm the NAICS code assigned to this acquisition and the applicable size standard.

NAICS code is 336612; size standard is 1000 employees.

80 I, FAR 52.219-14

The compliance period selection at FAR 52.219-14(f) is shown unmarked, with the instruction "[Contracting

Officer check as appropriate]." Please confirm whether the limitation on subcontracting is measured by individual order or by contract period.

See Section I, FAR 52.219-14(f) the X has been selected next to, ’

“By the end of the performance period for each order issued under the contract.”

81 J-1, Section M Attachment J-1 requires all five pricing tiers to be populated for every ordering period, while only the tier matching the estimated quantity enters Total

Evaluated Price. The J-1 instructions state the remaining tiers will be reviewed for cost reasonableness and balanced pricing. How will the

Government assess balance across tiers that do not enter the TEP calculation, given that Section M provides an offer may be determined unacceptable if option prices are materially unbalanced?

In accordance with RFP Section M.4 and RFP Section 15.404-6

(Unbalanced Pricing), the Government will analyze all proposed pricing tiers—including those not entering the TEP calculation—to ensure prices are not significantly over- or understated.

As stated in Section M.4(a)(1), the Government's price analysis techniques "may include comparison of competitive proposed prices received, comparison with historical prices paid for similar commercial boats, or comparison against the Independent

Government Cost Estimate (IGCE)."

Pursuant to RFO FAR 15.404-6 the Contracting Officer will evaluate whether any unbalanced pricing across the tiers poses an performance risk or would result in the Government paying unreasonably high prices during contract execution. Offers determined to pose an unacceptable risk to the Government may be rejected.

82 L.10.2, M.3(h)(3), J-1 Section L.10.2 asks offerors to address a production rate of upwards of 60 boats per year, while the J-1 estimated quantities reach 68 in ordering period nine.

Should production capacity be demonstrated against

60 boats per year or against the peak estimated quantity?

Production capacity shall be demonstrated against 60 boats per year per Section L.10.2.

83 H.2, H.6, Attachment 2 No. 42

The response to Attachment 2 Number 42 states the

RFP does not limit the number of production locations, and that a proposal offering multiple locations should address the impact on configuration management. Sections H.2 and H.6 require contractor facility access for COR visual observation and as a condition of interim milestone payments. Do those facility access requirements attach at IDIQ contract award, or at issuance of the first Delivery Order?

Where multiple locations are proposed, does the requirement apply to every proposed location from award?

The access requirements apply to any location where the RB-S III is being built.

84 Amendment A00001 Amendment A00001 states that revisions to the

Statement of Work, Specifications and List of

Deliverables will be incorporated in a subsequent amendment following the conclusion of the Q&A period, and the response to Attachment 2 Number 37 indicates SOW sections 091 and 092 will be renumbered. When does the Government anticipate issuing that amendment, and will the proposal due date be adjusted so offerors can reflect the revised technical baseline in the Appendix II drawings and

Appendix III calculations required by Section L?

The Government is targeting release of a revised Specification and

Statement of Work the week of October 19, 2026. A proposal due date extension to 20 November 2026 is being considered based on the number of questions and revisions.

85 L.6, Appendix III Section L requires preliminary calculations in native

Microsoft Excel. Where an offeror's stability, structural or propulsion analysis is produced in specialist naval architecture software rather than a spreadsheet, will the Government accept the native analysis file together with an Excel summary of inputs and results, or is a fully formula-driven Excel workbook required for each calculation?

The Government anticipates revision of Section L.10(b) Appendix

III with language similar to the following:

Appendix III: Calculations: Provide preliminary supporting calculations in native MS Excel format for: Stability; Drainage;

Hull, Deck and Cabin Structure; Speed and Range at the performance weight condition; Weight and Center of Gravity

Estimates; Electrical system selection and sizing; and Propulsion

System Sizing.

If specialized engineering analysis software is used, the Contractor shall provide: 1) Native-format model/input files, including all assumptions, boundary conditions, material properties, load cases, and configuration settings necessary to reproduce the analysis; 2)

Native-format output/result files; 3) The software name, version, applicable modules, and material solver/settings used; and 4) A summary report in native Microsoft Word format. The summary report shall describe the analysis purpose, methodology, governing assumptions, load cases, acceptance criteria, principal results, design margins, conclusions, limitations, and unresolved issues.

86 660-1.1.9 Are the seat pan required to be folding or drop-down or can the seat be designed to allow operator to transition from the seated position to standing position at the same station without folding or lowering the seat pan.

The seat pan shall be folding or drop-down design.

87 Section J-2 lists approximately 62 delivery locations and excludes other Government agency addresses.

CLIN X017 prices non-recurring engineering for an other Government agency variant. Can the

Government indicate the anticipated scope or quantity associated with that variant, or confirm it is a placeholder?

If an OGA variant is required, the modifications to meet the OGA requirements will be negotiated. If OGA delivery locations are different from the USCG locations, the delivery costs will be negotiated.

88 070 The solicitation does not identify a requirement for a rescue well. Does the Coast Guard have an operational need or preference for a rescue well to support personnel recovery missions on the RB-S? If so, please describe the anticipated operational scenarios and whether inclusion of a rescue well will be evaluated as part of the proposal assessment.

A rescue well is not required or prohibited.

89 CLIN X002 / CLIN

X003

The solicitation identifies the RB-S III delivery locations but does not provide the anticipated number of vessels per station or the preferred delivery sequence. In order to ensure total price is fairly evaluated, can the Government provide estimated vessel quantities by station, or alternatively a projected delivery schedule and prioritization of locations? This information is requested to support production, logistics, workforce planning, and development of realistic contract pricing assumptions

The delivery locations identified in the solicitation are provided for proposal preparation and freight pricing purposes. The Government has not yet established a vessel allocation by station or delivery sequence. Offerors shall proposal CONUS and OCONUS shipping pricing in accordance with Section B and Attachment J-1, Pricing

Schedule. Actual delivery quantities, locations, and delivery schedules will be identified in individual delivery orders in accordance with terms and conditions of the existing contract.

90 081 [ORIG]

OPERATIONAL

TESTING (OT)

SUPPORT

Please clarify whether the "on-call technician" requirement is intended to provide remote technical support during the stated availability period, or whether the Government expects a dedicated contractor technician to be physically present at each

Operational Testing site throughout the approximately six-month Operational Testing phase.

The on-call technician is not required to be physically on site at

Operational Testing stations.

91 SOW – In Water

Demonstration

The solicitation identifies several vessel performance parameters that may be recorded during the in-water demonstration. Will the Government also collect and evaluate data related to crew safety and slamming performance, including vertical accelerations, shock loads, whole-body vibration, ride quality, and crew fatigue? To the extent these factors will be evaluated, can the Government provide additional detail on the planned instrumentation approach, measurement locations, applicable standards, and how these metrics may be considered in the evaluation?

Per Section L.2.3(b) the Government may instrument the boat to collect data.

The Government will not provide additional details on the planned instrumentation approach other than that all boats involved in the In

Water Demonstration will be instrumented in the same manner and the same data will be collected for each boat.

92 252-2.2 We request that the Government remove the requirement for individual alarm tones to be capable of being silenced while the associated visual indication remains active. This functionality is not commonly available across many commercially available marine propulsion and machinery monitoring systems and is not considered a standard feature of many OEM alarm architectures. Retaining this requirement may unnecessarily limit the range of commercially available propulsion and monitoring solutions that could otherwise satisfy the operational requirements of the RB-S III. Will the Government remove this requirement and accept the standard alarm functionality provided by commercially available

OEM propulsion and machinery monitoring systems?

The Government will not remove the requirement. Individual alarm tones that can be silenced while the associated visual indication remains active is a requirement.

93 300-1.2 Does the Government intend for the IP67 rating requirement to apply to all electrical enclosures throughout the vessel, including those located within protected interior spaces such as machinery spaces, helm consoles, electrical equipment spaces, and other weather-protected compartments?

Many commercially available marine electrical components and enclosures intended for installation in protected interior environments are not rated IP67, as such a rating is typically reserved for equipment exposed to weather, washdown, or direct water ingress hazards. Will the Government consider limiting the

IP67 requirement to enclosures installed in exposed or wet locations and permit enclosure ratings appropriate to the installation environment for equipment located within protected spaces?

All electrical enclosures are required to be IP67 rated.

94 261-1.7 Please confirm that "physical sending unit" relates to a float switch instead of a Ultrasonic or pressure activiated sending unit. Is the intent for the fuel sending unit to be connected to a dedicated gauge and not connected to the NMEA 2000® Interface. Or can the gauge be connected to the NMEA 2000® network with a dash mounted gauge also connected to the same network

Yes the “physical sending unit” should be a mechanical float and not an ultrasonic or pressure activated sending unit. The specification section 261-1.7 has been revised to clarify that the tank level indicator should rely on a “mechanical sending unit …”.

There should be a dedicated display for fuel level. How information is communicated between the sending unit and the display is not specified. Specification section 261-1.7 has been revised to require this.

95 CLIN X010 It is anticipated there will be multiple efforts where the Contractor (or a SubK) will require travel including supporting CONUS and OCONUS freight receiving, FAM training, and meetings. Is it anticipated CLIN X010 will be used to support those travel efforts or is it expected the Contractor will include this travel in the related CLINS? If X010 is not to be used for all travel, please clarify what is used for.

The cost of travel associated with Crew FAM shall be included in

CLINs X004 and X005.

The cost of shipping CLIN X001 to the CONUS or OCONUS locations shall be included in CLINs X002 and X003.

CLIN X010 is in place for travel costs not covered elsewhere in the contract.

96 Section I – Contract

Clauses

Pursuant to FAR 52.225-1(c) as incorporated by reference in Section I, ""Offerors may obtain from the

Contracting Officer a list of foreign articles that the

Contracting Officer will treat as domestic for this contract.""

Can the Government please confirm that any

Government-specified equipment (e.g.Raymarine

SINS-2, AIS5000, Standard Horizon GX-6000, Motorola APX-8500) counts as domestic? Further, can the Government provide a list of any other items that the Government would treat as domestic for this contract?

Refer to FAR 52.225-1, Buy American—Supplies, incorporated in

Section I, and FAR 52.225-2, Buy American Certificate, in Section

K, for the applicable requirements. Government identification of specific equipment does not independently establish its domestic-origin status. The Government has not made any contract-specific nonavailability determination and has no additional contract-specific list to provide.

97 051 [Orig] RB-S III

PERFORMANCE

REQUIREMENTS

Will the USCG consider including minimum performance requirements for high-speed maneuverability as part of the vessel specification? The current requirements establish minimum operational performance criteria such as maximum speed. In addition, the on-water demonstrations will include assessment of vessel maneuvering characteristics. Given that maneuverability is a critical operational capability and will be evaluated during testing, it would seem appropriate to define minimum acceptable performance requirements for high-speed maneuvering. Doing so would provide clear evaluation criteria for both offerors and the

Government and help ensure consistency during the assessment process.

The Government will not establish performance requirements for high-speed maneuverability.

During the In-Water Demonstration each of the boats will undergo the same scenarios and be compared to each other.

98 660-1.1.9 Can the USCG clarify whether compliance with [660-

1.1.9] will be evaluated based on the operational capability of the crew member at the station, rather than the use of a specific mechanical feature such as a folding or drop-down seat pan? If a seat design allows the operator to safely and effectively conduct duties in both seated and standing modes at the same station, would such an arrangement be considered compliant?

The requirement is for the seat pan to be a folding or drop-down design.

99 625-1.6

Would a hole through a window be acceptable if reinforced with bonded metal plates on both sides?

Such a hole could enable a significant enhancement to visibility.

No.

100 441-1.4

The GX-6000 radio has an internal speaker. Can radios with internal speakers be removed from the requirement for a speaker cut-off switch?

If a radio internal speaker cannot be cut-off, the requirement for a cut-off switch does not apply.

101 424-1.2.8

What is the intended function of the NGX-1 NMEA

2000 Dual Gateway? The specifications do not contain a requirement for a component that requires the conversion it provides.

The intended function is to allow the Government to use legacy equipment.

102 301-1.1

Can IP67 rated connectors be used on individual cables to enhance service and maintainability?

Yes.

103 SOW 041-6.3 The SOW requires the contractor to cover the procurement cost of a replacement item that goes obsolete via a no cost ECP.

Can the Coast Guard confirm the expectation is that the small business contractor is required to bear the cost of a large business OEM obsolescence decision

(e.g. an Outboard motor that goes obsolete seven years into the contract and the replacement unit cost

$10k-$15K apiece more).

If yes, would the Coast Guard be amenable to advance purchasing these obsolescence items to avoid the resultant configuration change?

Note: The SOW paragraph specifically calls out the contractor is responsible for the replacement cost of the item and not the increased cost of the replacement item. Can you clarify that It’s only the increased cost the contractor is responsible for?

The SOW requires the contractor to cover the cost of replacing contractor-selected items that go obsolete.

The ability of the Coast Guard to do advance purchasing due to…