# SAM #N32205-SS-PM4-26-176

Market Research for TUGCON Open-Ocean Towing of Two Navy Vessels

**Buyer:** MSC Norfolk
**Posted:** September 30, 2026
**Respond By:** October 06, 2026
**Identifier:** N32205-SS-PM4-26-176
**NAICS:** 488390, 483111

The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command is conducting market research for a two-vessel, open-ocean towing mission under TUGCON.
- Government buyer: U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command (MSC), Strategic Sealift Program Support Office N103A / PM4 Program Office. Points of contact are David Anaya and Contracting Officer E. Nic Hatcher.
- Requested service: One voyage involving two separate tows, using one or two U.S.-flag, Jones Act, ocean-going certified tugboats:
  - Ex-Fort Worth (LCS-3), approximately 3,500 LT displacement, from Naval Station San Diego to INACTSHIPS Bremerton.
  - Ex-Lake Erie (CG-70), approximately 9,600 LT displacement, from Naval Station San Diego to INACTSHIPS Pearl Harbor.
- Tugboats must comply with the U.S. Navy Towing Manual and be capable of towing either vessel at a minimum of 6 knots for 5 knots speed over ground in Beaufort 5 conditions.
- Mission requirements include tow preparation and equipment for both vessels, required inspections and documentation, communications and position/status reports, an independent marine surveyor, and a comprehensive tow package for approval. Up to four days of laytime are included.
- Respondents are asked to provide a lump-sum price, demurrage rate, itinerary, and estimated mission duration. No specific OEMs or vendors are named, and no contract value is provided.

### Description

<p>Sources Sought Notice N32205-SS-PM4-26-176 is hereby posted.</p>

<p>Please see attached.</p>

[View original listing](https://sam.gov/opp/eda34393d3d843acb5fd2852c8982c54/view)