CBP Intent to Sole Source ROV's RJE Oceanbotics, Inc.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), a civilian agency within the Department of Homeland Security, has issued a Special Notice announcing its intent to sole source a contract for underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). Specifically, CBP plans to negotiate a direct award with RJE Oceanbotics, Inc., located in Irvine, California, for the procurement of 3 SRV-8 DSS Underwater ROV systems and related equipment. The procurement is being conducted under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 6.302-1, which allows for sole source procurement when only one responsible source can satisfy agency requirements. The contract falls under the NAICS code 339999 for All Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing, and the Product Service Code (PSC) 4220 for Marine Lifesaving and Diving Equipment. The Special Notice was posted on April 16, 2025, with a response deadline of April 23, 2025.

Interested parties who believe they can provide similar capabilities are invited to submit company information directly to the contracting officer, Robert Kay, via email at robert.kay@va.gov before 2:00 PM Eastern Time on the response deadline. The notice explicitly states that this is not a request for quotations and no solicitation will be made available. Potential contractors must follow the specific submission guidelines, which include emailing their capabilities information and understanding that no phone calls will be accepted. The primary objective appears to be acquiring specialized underwater ROV systems for CBP's operational needs. While the notice indicates no specific set-aside for small businesses or disadvantaged vendors, it provides an opportunity for companies to demonstrate their capabilities if they believe they can meet the agency's unique requirements. Contractors interested in this opportunity should carefully review the notice and prepare concise, targeted information about their company's expertise in marine and underwater technology.