9280-25-R-IFBD-00013

The University of Southern Mississippi is seeking to procure five relocatable maritime domain awareness systems with advanced acoustic machine learning and artificial intelligence capabilities. The procurement, identified as BID 25-13 with RFx number 3160006928, targets low-power hydrophone systems designed for maritime object and mammal detection, localization, and classification. Required system specifications include cellular modem connectivity, GPS integration, ability to run custom ML and AI models, maximum operating depth, specific power consumption parameters, and comprehensive performance capabilities. Vendors must demonstrate a proven track record in developing broadband hydrophone systems and accompanying software packages. The bid responses are due on October 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in the Office of Procurement Services, located at 118 College Drive #5003, Bond Hall, Room 214, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. The University will award the contract to the lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder meeting all specified technical requirements. Additionally, the procurement includes a mandatory one-year warranty period during which the University will incur no service or replacement costs.

The solicitation documents do not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged businesses or restrictions on respondent types. No incumbent vendors are identified in the available materials. The procurement covers systems that will require integration with the University's existing custom machine learning and AI models, suggesting potential technical complexity for potential bidders. While precise budget ranges are not disclosed, the procurement involves five complex maritime technology systems with advanced acoustic and AI capabilities, implying a significant potential contract value. The University reserves the right to reject any or all bids, maintaining flexibility in the procurement process. Interested vendors must provide comprehensive system documentation, demonstrate system performance, and be prepared to offer training as part of their bid submission. The technical specifications suggest this is a specialized procurement targeting vendors with sophisticated maritime sensing and machine learning technology capabilities.