W8472-225864 Dive Tender Replacement Project RFI

PROCUREMENT OVERVIEW:
The opportunity involves the Dive Tender Replacement (DTR) project, initiated by the Department of National Defence (DND) in Canada, with assistance from Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC). The primary objective is to replace the existing fleet of Granby and Sechelt-class vessels used by the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) for diving operations. The new vessels are expected to support a full range of diving tasks essential for naval operations and public safety, resembling traditional 24-crew diving support vessels. The project falls under the small vessel construction component of the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), specifically Pillar 2.

ISSUING ORGANIZATION:
The issuing organization is the Department of Public Works and Government Services (PSPC), located in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada. The primary contact for this RFI is Nina Caldwell, who can be reached at [email protected].

KEY DATES:

• Posted Date: June 8, 2026
• Proposal Due Date: September 1, 2026
• Anticipated Award Date: Not specified
• Performance Period: Not specified

CONTRACT DETAILS:
The procurement method is competitive, with an open invitation to bid. Specific contract type and estimated value have not been disclosed in the RFI.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:

• Bidders must comply with the operational requirements outlined in Annex A of the RFI.
• Potential restrictions on bidding may apply to shipyards selected under Pillar 1 of the NSS.
• No specific certifications, security clearances, or geographic restrictions are mentioned in the RFI.

TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES:
Bidders should possess expertise in marine construction services, particularly in building small vessels that meet the operational needs of the RCN for diving support. Familiarity with the National Shipbuilding Strategy and relevant marine construction standards may be beneficial.

DELIVERABLES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:
While specific deliverables and performance metrics are not detailed in the RFI, bidders should be prepared to meet the operational requirements for the new diving support vessels as specified in Annex A.

EVALUATION CRITERIA:
The RFI does not explicitly outline evaluation criteria or weighting factors. However, bidders should anticipate that technical capability and alignment with operational requirements will be critical in assessing proposals.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
While not mandatory, bidders with experience in constructing vessels for military or government use, particularly those that align with the specifications of the NSS, may have a competitive advantage. Preferred qualifications may include familiarity with the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) and experience in similar marine construction projects.

In summary, bidders interested in the Dive Tender Replacement Project should assess their capabilities against the operational requirements, ensure compliance with NSS provisions, and prepare to demonstrate relevant experience in marine construction services.