USCGC James Propulsion Troubleshoot

The U.S. Coast Guard has published a Special Notice regarding propulsion system troubleshooting services for the USCGC James, a Coast Guard cutter experiencing propeller pitch control issues that prevent the vessel from achieving its maximum operational speed of 26 knots. The Department of Homeland Security U.S. Coast Guard issued this notice on September 4, 2025, indicating that the contract has already been awarded to JOTFOC Technical Services for cleaning and inspection of shaft seals, while also announcing a sole source intent for Kongsberg Maritime Inc. to provide specialized technical services. The work involves correcting improperly programmed port and starboard propeller pitch settings that are causing engine speed mismatches and preventing the cutter from reaching full operational capability. This procurement falls under NAICS code 336611 for Ship Building and Repairing and is categorized as maintenance and repair of ship and marine equipment. The vessel is currently stationed at the pier in North Charleston, South Carolina, where the technical work will be performed.

The primary objective of this Special Notice is to secure specialized technical expertise from a Kongsberg certified technician to repair propeller pitch and engine RPM mapping systems, enabling the USCGC James to achieve its designed maximum speed of 26 knots through proper calibration of its propulsion controls. The contract period of performance is extremely compressed, running from September 8-10, 2025, with interested parties required to submit responses by 8:00 AM Pacific Time on September 8, 2025. The scope includes onsite troubleshooting, HP mapping of control systems in coordination with MTU engineers, underway testing to verify correct settings, and delivery of a comprehensive trip report within three days of contract completion. While the Special Notice indicates a Total Small Business set aside, the accompanying sole source notice specifies that Kongsberg Maritime Inc. is the intended contractor due to their specialized certification and expertise with the vessel's propulsion systems. The government emphasizes this is for informational purposes and retains discretion over whether to conduct competitive procurement, requiring any competing offerors to demonstrate clear advantages to the government.