18R3352_Q&A_0001.pdf

MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND

N32205-17-R-3352

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

14 December 2017

The following are answers to questions received from potential offerors. The answers provide clarification only and DO NOT constitute an amendment to the solicitation.

1. Fuel – The RFP identifies different fuel prices in the amendment to Part XI(e)b and the Dry Time Fuel consumption spreadsheet. Please advise which set of fuel prices is correct.

ANSWER: A corrected Fuel Consumption Spreadsheet is attached.

2. Capacity – The RFP specifies a requirement for “self-sustaining vessels capable of carrying a minimum of 900 TEUs nominal of containerized ammunition while satisfying regulatory hazmat compatibility and segregation requirements.” The RFP also specifies that the average TEU gross weight is 30,000 lbs. Please confirm that, when evaluating compliance with these technical requirements, MSC will consider a vessel’s stack weight limitations (assuming 30,000 lbs. per TEU) as well as regulatory restrictions regarding stowing ammo in proximity to engine room spaces.

ANSWER: The requirement is to stow a minimum of 900 TEUs with an average weight of 30,000 lbs per container, not that each container weighs 30,000 lbs. Offerors are requested submit a stow plan demonstrating the ability to carry a minimum of 900 TEUs with an average weight of 30,000 lbs. Vessel stack weight limitations will be considered. Regulatory restrictions regarding stowing ammo in proximity to the engine room spaces will be reviewed to ensure vessels are in compliance to the IMDG requirement.

3. Reflag – Please confirm that MSC will accept offers of vessels that would be reflagged into U.S. registry and enrolled into VISA after contract award but before vessel delivery.

ANSWER: Yes.

4. Reflagging or Repair Work Clause – The subject clause defines “reflagging or repair work” to mean work performed on a vessel “To convert the vessel to a more military useful configuration.” Please confirm that installing equipment to satisfy IMDG requirements to carry Class 1 explosives under deck would not trigger the Reflagging or Repair Work clause because:

(a) the work does not represent a conversion of the vessel; and (b) the IMDG imposes commercial requirements (as opposed to military unique requirements).

ANSWER: Installing equipment to allow Class 1 explosives under deck would be considered to make the vessel more militarily useful and said work would be required to be accomplished in a U.S. shipyard.