The U.S. Navy, through PAE Maritime, issued an RFI to gather market data on existing or in‑development Yard Diving Tender (YDT) designs that could be built in the United States and flagged U.S. for delivery to Panama City Beach, FL. The Navy plans to award a contract in FY 2027 for up to two 170‑ft vessels to support diving and salvage training, requiring specific performance, stability, and payload capabilities. Respondents are asked to provide design details, production capacity, pricing, and relevant experience, limited to a 10‑page response submitted electronically via DoD SAFE by 1500 EDT on 24 Sept 2026.
• Vessel size ≤ 52 m (170 ft) length, ≤ 10 m beam, ≤ 3.6 m draft, ≤ 15 m air draft.
• Cruise ≥ 15 knots (full load, Sea State 4), range ≥ 400 nm, DP‑2 station‑keeping to Sea State 3.
• Payload: ≥ 180 m² deck area, ≥ 50 personnel, 4,500 kg crane, extensive diving support spaces.
• Must meet ABS, CFR 33/46, and Navy Diving Manual standards; U.S.–built and U.S.–flagged only.
• Provide design data, company experience, production capacity, approximate pricing (vessel, delivery, engineering), and facility location.
• Submission via DoD SAFE; no phone inquiries accepted; responses are voluntary market research only.