Intent to Sole Source: Chant Vertical Pull Test Machine Troubleshoot and Repair

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, under the Department of the Navy Naval Sea Systems Command, is seeking a contractor to provide troubleshooting, repair, and annual preventative maintenance services for a CHANT vertical Pull Test Machine used in load testing operations. The Navy intends to award this firm-fixed-price contract to Chant Engineering as the sole source under FAR 13.106-1(b), citing Chant as the Original Equipment Manufacturer and only known source capable of performing repairs due to the proprietary nature of the equipment. Key contract requirements include providing fully burdened labor rates for both scheduled and emergency repairs, submitting a fixed percentage markup for parts and materials, delivering detailed Service Reports within three days of each maintenance visit, and obtaining OEM authorization to perform maintenance and repair work. The evaluation will be based on lowest-priced technically acceptable offeror criteria, with emphasis on firm-fixed pricing for scheduled maintenance services. Quotes must be submitted by email by January 8, 2026, at 12:30 PM EST, and all vendors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).

This procurement is set aside for Total Small Business, with Chant Engineering identified as the current incumbent and only viable source. The contract will operate on a base period from January 13, 2026, through January 11, 2027, followed by four one-year option periods extending through January 7, 2031, allowing the Navy to maintain critical lifting and handling capabilities throughout this five-year window. The work will be performed at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, and contractors must comply with Service Contract Act wage determinations for York County, Maine, Operations Security (OPSEC) requirements, and all applicable Navy security protocols. While a specific budget value is not disclosed in the solicitation, the NAICS code 541380 (Testing Laboratories and Services) applies with a $19 million size standard for small business purposes. The Navy emphasizes that while this is a notice of intent to sole source, any responsible source believing they can meet the requirement may submit a capability statement for consideration by the agency.