Towing Hawser

The Department of the Navy Naval Supply Systems Command is seeking to procure a towing hawser consisting of a 12-inch circumference (4-inch diameter) 12-strand plaited polyester rope measuring 900 feet in length with 12-inch towing couplers spliced on each end. This is a pre-solicitation notice indicating the government's intent to solicit proposals from three small businesses capable of meeting the specified requirements. The solicitation may potentially utilize oral solicitations rather than traditional electronic means, contingent upon the contracting officer's determination that oral solicitation would be more efficient in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(c)(1)(ii). The notice indicates reliance on FAR 12.203(a) regarding the $350,000 ceiling for oral solicitations and references a GAO interpretation from Matter of Phoenix Environment Design, Inc. that permits flexibility in posting requirements when oral solicitations fall within the $20,000 to $350,000 range. Interested vendors should note the posted date of March 23, 2026, with a due date of March 25, 2026.

This procurement is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside, restricting competition to certified small business entities. The estimated government cost falls within the $20,000 to $350,000 range, though a specific independent government estimate is not disclosed in this pre-solicitation notice. The commodity classification falls under NAICS code 314994 (Rope, Cordage, Twine, Tire Cord, and Tire Fabric Mills) and PSC code 4020 (Fiber Rope, Cordage, and Twine), indicating the specialized nature of the required equipment. No incumbent contractor is identified in this notice. Small businesses interested in responding should monitor official government procurement channels for the formal solicitation announcement, which may be issued through oral contact or electronic means depending on the contracting officer's determination of efficiency.