18R3516_QA_1-12.docx

MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND

N32205-18-R-3516

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

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. With respect to vessel autonomy / endurance, Section 1.3 notes up to 45 days and Item 2.a.2 notes 32 days – please clarify.

Answer: Minimal acceptable vessel autonomy / endurance is 32 days for demo. Please see Amendment 0002 that updates language in Section 1.3 of the PWS.

2. How often is it anticipated that the vessel will be in port where the armed security requirement is needed?

Answer: Government anticipates armed security per port services at US Government controlled pier. If we go into a non-controlled port (non-military) then anticipate ship provides armed security.

3. Please provide more information with respect to MSC / sponsor’s expectations on emergency medical services.

Answer: The ship and crew shall have the ability to provide first aid and request assistance from Operational Command to MEDIVAC as necessary.

4. Would a shore-based crane, versus an onboard crane, be sufficient for moving the ISO vans?

Answer: Yes

5. Please confirm that the 75,000 pounds with respect to the tow loading is in regard to the weight of the tow winch and appurtenances? If so, what is the estimated required bollard pull of the vessel for towing the acoustic array?

Answer: Typical tow load (required bollard pull) is 6,500 lbs with excursions to 16,900 lbs. The listed tow load (not weight) of 75,000 lbs is the design load of the towing system, which corresponds to the breaking strength of the cable. The weight of the tow winch and accessories is in the table in appendix 1 (52,000 lbs.)

6. Please confirm that a qualified chief engineer with basic hydraulic and electrical knowledge is sufficient to fill the requirements of Item 3n/o.

Answer: This is acceptable.

7. Please confirm that a shore-based qualified welder will suffice in assisting with any welding in regard to mobilization or demobilization of GFE.

Answer: A shore based welder will suffice.

8. We are not aware of any US-flag commercial vessels that already have documentation with respect to the radiated noise signature in accordance with the applicable DNV rules. Please provide this information, if possible, so that we may better gauge our ability to meet these requirements.

Answer: The offeror are expected to do their own research on DNV rules in order to meet the requirement.

9. The DNV rules as noted in the RFP require noise signature readings at a vessel speed of 11 knots. This appears to be an overly prescriptive requirement, since we will be towing the acoustic array at approximately 5 knots. Respectfully request that offerors be allowed to provide data that shows we meet the noise limits at this lower transit speed.

Answer: Platform is required to meet noise at 11 knots per specification although we will operate at lower speed.

10. This solicitation released September 14; however, Part X.d. of the RFP Proforma states that Questions are to be submitted no later than 1:00 p.m. September 7, a week before the solicitation released. Proposals are due September 21. We respectfully request a minimum 2-week extension to the due date, so that our questions may be considered and we may develop a thoughtful, compliant proposal.

Answer: RFP due date is extended to 28 September, and cut-off date for Questions is 25 September 1300 Eastern Time. Please see Amendment 1.

11. Please confirm that documentation from an accredited noise and vibration company shall suffice for this requirement and that a DNV document is not required.

Answer: Government requires technical package from a qualified source to document the platform meets the DNV Silent R specification.

12. Is the clear opening at the transom required in Item 3d (30 ft) sufficient to cover the clear opening in Item 3g (18.5 ft) or do we need to combine both openings (i.e. clear opening of 30 ft plus 18.5 ft of 48.5 ft)?

Answer: The 18.5FT opening is included in the 3d (30 foot opening) requirement. They are not additive.