9280-25-R-IFBD-00059

The University of Southern Mississippi is seeking bids for modifications to its SeaTrac SP-48 4.8 m Uncrewed Surface Vehicle (USV) through a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) identified as Bid No. 25-53. The procurement targets comprehensive upgrades to an existing USV, including installation of a deep-water aluminum keel at least 5 meters long, deflector skegs, an upgraded 36V battery with minimum 300AH capacity, and a Starlink Mini Satellite communications system. Vendor requirements include delivering and configuring the systems at USM's Marine Research Center in Gulfport, Mississippi, with mandatory comprehensive documentation and training on system operation and maintenance. The solicitation specifically requires vendors to demonstrate a proven performance record of developing similar USV systems within the past three years, with the primary objectives of enhancing the SeaTrac's stability, operational range, and data transmission capabilities for research purposes, particularly in Gulf of Mexico hypoxia regions. Sealed bids will be received until Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. CT in the Office of the Director of Procurement Services, located at 118 College Drive #5003, Bond Hall, Room 214, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, with the procurement reference number RFx 3160007380.

The procurement documents do not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on bidding organizations. The university reserves the right to reject any or all bids, maintaining flexibility in vendor selection. A minimum one-year warranty is required for both software and hardware, with the university expressing preference for extended warranty periods. The vendor will be responsible for all delivery and transportation costs and must provide references demonstrating successful deployment of comparable systems. While specific budget ranges are not detailed in the available documents, the comprehensive modification requirements suggest a technically complex and potentially significant investment. The solicitation will be publicly advertised twice, on 5/13/2025 and 5/20/2025, to ensure broad vendor awareness. Interested vendors can obtain detailed specifications through the university's procurement office or website, which hosts current bids and sole source notices.