9280-26-R-IFBD-00002

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is soliciting sealed bids for Bid 26-01, specifically seeking two Biological Sensor Nose Cone Systems (Bio-nose) to be integrated into Hefring Oceanscout underwater gliders. The procurement is designed to enhance USM's msbCOAWST model by adding biological sensors capable of measuring chlorophyll-a, fDOM, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, and temperature. Vendors must provide complete sensor systems with detailed technical specifications, including specific wavelength ranges, calibration requirements, and operational parameters. The deliverables must include a comprehensive software package, vehicle interface program dashboards, and complete training at the USM facility. Proposals are due by 2:00 p.m. CT on September 9, 2025, and will be received in the Office of the Director of Procurement Services located in Bond Hall, Room 214, at 118 College Drive #5003 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Vendors must demonstrate proof of performance showing successful deployment of similar systems within the past two years and provide a minimum one-year warranty along with operations and maintenance manuals.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The procurement will be delivered to USM's School of Ocean Science and Engineering at the Stennis Space Center, with the vendor responsible for engineering, integration, and transportation costs. While no specific budget range is detailed in the documents, the university indicates that cash terms will not be the primary basis for contract award, though cash discounts will be accepted under terms of 2% in ten days and net 45 days per Mississippi law. No incumbent vendors or existing technology integration requirements are explicitly mentioned in the procurement documents. The bid is identified by RFx number 3160007570 and will be published twice, on 8/21/2025 and 8/28/2025. The university reserves the right to reject any or all bids, maintaining flexibility in the procurement process.