Diego Garcia Shuttle Vessel Long Term Charter

Background
The Military Sealift Command (MSC) is seeking information regarding the price and availability of a U.S. flag, self-sustaining combination container/breakbulk vessel to support military sustainment on the island of Diego Garcia.
This request is part of a market survey aimed at developing future requirements, pricing, and availability for long-term charter services.

Work Details
The contractor will provide one vessel capable of lifting and transporting various types of cargo including containerized cargo, refrigerated containers, flattracks, breakbulk, hazardous cargo, and rolling stock.
The vessel is estimated to be in port 50% of the time and underway laden 50% of the time.
Specific requirements include:
1. Minimum speed of advance: 15.0 knots laden for vessels with hydraulic hatch covers; 16.0 knots laden for vessels with other types of hatch covers.
2. Minimum operating range: 8000 nautical miles.
3. Maximum draft: not exceeding 35 feet.
4. Accommodations for two supercargo for surveillance of sensitive and classified shipments.
5. Cargo capacity: minimum of 230 TEU containers with combinations allowed; capability to carry a maximum load averaging 14 metric tons per container; ability to accommodate 100,000 cubic feet of cargo with a minimum 10-foot overhead clearance; capacity for at least 50 reefer containers within the specified TEU capacity.

Period of Performance
The contract period is from July 15, 2025, to July 14, 2026, with three one-year options and one additional eleven-month option period available.

Place of Performance
The area of operations includes the Far East/Indian Ocean with a port in Singapore.