Military Sealift Command VERTREP Pacific Detachment A

The Department of the Navy's Military Sealift Command is conducting a Sources Sought Notice for commercial helicopter vertical replenishment (VERTREP) services in the Pacific region. The agency seeks a contractor to provide a two-helicopter detachment capable of supporting U.S. Navy ships, partner nations' ships, and theater facilities worldwide. Key contract requirements include aircraft with a minimum 9,630 lb external lift capacity, U.S.-flagged helicopters, and a crew of at least 5 pilots and 3 maintainers who are U.S. citizens with Secret clearances. Interested vendors must submit capability statements by March 12, 2025, at 5:00 PM Norfolk time, with required response information including organizational details, DUNS/CAGE codes, small business status, and Air Mobility Command CARB approval status. Evaluation will likely focus on compliance with FAR regulations, operational experience, and technical capabilities of proposed aircraft and personnel.

The contract appears to have no specific small business set-aside, and falls under NAICS code 481212 for Nonscheduled Chartered Freight Air Transportation with a size standard of 1,500 employees. The performance period includes a one-year base period from July 29, 2026, to July 28, 2027, with four potential one-year option periods extending through July 28, 2031. The detachment will primarily support SEVENTH, FIFTH, and THIRD Fleet requirements from a forward location in Guam, with worldwide operational capabilities. Contractors will be responsible for maintenance, parts, training, and must carry $10M liability insurance per aircraft. While specific award value is not disclosed, the contract will include fixed daily rates for embarked and shore-based operations, plus hourly flight rates. The government anticipates making the contract award approximately 180 days prior to the performance start date.