NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO), Marine Operations Center Acquisition Branch (MOAB), intends to negotiate and award a firm-fixed-price contract on a sole source basis under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1) to Sound Propeller (SP) Systems LLC, 29 E Marine View Dr., Everett, Washington 98201-1254. The requirement is for propulsion shaft seal, thrust bearing, and aft motor bearing repairs onboard NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow.

The vessel is currently experiencing critical propulsion casualties that present an immediate and unacceptable risk to vessel safety, crew, and mission readiness. Due to the urgent and compelling nature of this requirement, the Government does not have sufficient time to conduct a full and open competition without unacceptable delays. Performance is required no later than May 8, 2026, to prevent further degradation of the propulsion system and potential operational failure.

SP Systems is uniquely qualified to perform this work as they performed the most recent service to the affected components. SP Systems possesses the knowledge of the shaft seal system and vessel configuration, and continuity of service enables portions of the required work to be completed under warranty, resulting in cost savings to the Government. No other vendor can meet the Government’s required schedule while ensuring compatibility with existing systems and minimizing technical risk.

This notice is not a request for quotes. However, interested parties may submit capability statements demonstrating their ability to meet this requirement within the required timeframe. All capability statements must be received no later than April 21, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Submissions shall be sent via email to alexander.cancela@noaa.gov. Responses will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement in the future.

A determination by the Government not to compete this requirement is at the sole discretion of the Government. Submitted capability statements shall include sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to meet the requirement, including relevant experience, pricing information (if available), and supporting documentation.