Navy will issue common hull platform industry studies RFP, options for design awards

The Navy intends to issue a solicitation to industry to study the feasibility of a Common Hull Auxiliary Multi-Mission Platform, with options for concept design and preliminary design awards, according to a Sept. 21 Federal Business Opportunities notice.

"The Navy is interested in evaluating the feasibility of a common hull auxiliary ship that can provide multi-mission functionality," the notice states. "Identified missions include: strategic sealift, aviation intermediate maintenance support, medical services, command and control, and submarine tending."

The service is also interested in the feasibility of tailored force packages to support roll-on/roll-off movement of combat equipment and expanded missions, the notice continued.

The Navy plans to release the request for proposals in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019 and award multiple contracts for industry studies. A concept design option could be awarded in FY-19 and a preliminary design option could be exercised in FY-20.

The CHAMP concept combines several sealift and auxiliary recapitalization programs with varying designs into a single U.S. shipbuilding effort.

The Navy published a request for information earlier this year regarding CHAMP, Inside the Navy reported.