Q&A___1_&_2.docx

N32205-17-R-3506 Cable Ship Long-term Time Charter Solicitation Questions and Answers #1 & 2

1. Q. Could you please clarify how many Crew Members for Force Protection we are required to provide as there is a conflict between PART V, Section (I) and Attachment E (PWS) Section 6.10.5?

A. Contractors are required to provide five (5) crewmembers for force protection per the following:

COMSC INST 5530.3F, Pg. 15 of 313, c.12 - “Ensure each ship has a minimum of 5 shipboard personnel who are qualified to be members of the Ship's Reaction Force (SRF) and the Ship's Watch Stander Team prior to being sent to join the ship. If necessary, this training may be conducted on board ship by the MSC Afloat Training Team or an MSC-approved civilian instructor.”

Additionally, potential offerors are advised that Box 6 of PART I is blank; therefore, none of the clauses of PART V are applicable to this solicitation.

2. Q. Is the Navy planning on providing any additional Force Protection in addition to what we are required to provide? If so, how many?

A. Additional force protection personnel may be embarked per Attachment E para 6.10.1 Force Protection. The Contractor shall provide accommodations and victualling for those embarked personnel. The Master and SDR will identify suitable berthing space. The Government shall reimburse the Contractor for all expenses relating to the embarkation force protection personnel as provided in this charter for supercargo. Note: In the past, these teams have been afforded portable cots in a common area when sufficient berthing was unavailable. In the case that cots are required, the Contractor will be requested to provide them as a reimbursable expense.