The U.S. Navy, through PAE Maritime PMS 300, is conducting market research via an RFI/Sources Sought to assess industry interest and identify capable sources for acquiring one Research Vessel (R/V) for NSWC Carderock Acoustic Research Detachment (NSWCCD ARD). The vessel will support towed sonar array testing on Lake Pend Oreille, replace the aging R/V Chinook, and be delivered directly to ARD’s facility in Bayview, ID. Key requirements include a maximum 80-ft length, marine diesel propulsion with bow thrusters, speeds from 2 kts minimum to 35 kts maximum transit, a four-person crew with space for a 12-person computer lab, 30,000-lb vertical deck payload, 20,000-lb tow load, acoustic treatments, specified electronics, and 40-kW/60-kW generators. The notional planning schedule includes Industry RFI in 4th QTR FY26, Industry Day in 1st QTR FY27, Draft RFP in 2nd QTR FY27, Final RFP in 2nd QTR FY27, and anticipated award in 3rd QTR FY27. Interested parties are invited to submit capability statements and voluntary market-research responses; the requirement may be set aside for small businesses or procured through full and open competition.

The Navy is issuing a combined RFI/Sources Sought to assess industry interest and identify capable sources for the acquisition of one research vessel to replace the aging R/V Chinook, supporting acoustic testing at Lake Pend Oreille. The vessel must be delivered to the ARD facility in Bayview, ID, and include characteristics such as roughly 80 ft length, marine diesel propulsion, speeds from 2 to 35 kts, 30,000 lb payload, 20,000 lb tow load, specialized acoustic treatments, and a four-point mooring system. Notional planning timelines include issuing the industry RFI in Q4 FY26, an industry day in Q1 FY27, draft and final RFP in Q2 FY27, and anticipated award in Q3 FY27. Interested parties must submit company details and tailored capability statements, and if the effort is set aside for small businesses, the offeror must perform 50% of manufacturing cost. This notice is solely for market research and does not commit the government to issue a future solicitation or contract.