USTRANSCOM announces operating requirements for commercial ship participation in the Maritime Security Program (MSP)
US Transportation Command makes this announcement on behalf of the Department of Defense. The interim final rule and request for comment concerning the MSP is contained in the Federal Register, volume 69, No. 138 under docket no. MARAD-2004-18489.
The general requirements are intended to assist commercial marine operators in formulating vessel offers for participation in the MSP. While these are general operating requirements, the Department of Defense retains the right to modify, supplement or change requirements and to exercise its judgment in selecting vessels that best meet the Department's needs.
Department of Defense preferences, based on vessel type are:
New Tank Vessels of not less than 35,000 and not greater than 60,000 deadweight tons constructed in the United States, after November 24, 2003 and capable of carrying militarily useful petroleum products. Ships should have a minimum of three cargo segregations in epoxy-coated tanks. Ships must be able to conduct CONSOL operations and be suitable for national defense or military purposes in time of war, national emergency or other military contingency.
Roll-on Roll-off vessels with a carrying capacity of at least 100,000 square feet of militarily useful space and capable of maintaining 17 knots. Ships should have a loaded draft of less than 38.5 feet and an internal ramp of width of 16 feet. Stern ramp capacity should be 100 tons and deck strength should be 350 pounds per square foot. Exterior door opening should be at least 14 feet 6 inches high and deck heights should be 12 feet.
Float-on Float-off vessels capable of loading, transporting and discharging two Mine Countermeasure (MCM) vessels without external assistance.
Lift-on Lift-off vessels capable of lifting 152 short tons per lift and able to lift, stow, transport and offload two 110 foot patrol boats with cradle and capable of maintaining 15 knots or higher.
Lighter Aboard Ship (LASH) vessels able to carry 40,000 Metric tons spread across 75 barges and maintaining 15 knots or higher
Geared Container Ships with at least 1500 Twenty foot Equivalent Units (TEU) militarily useful capacity, a crane capacity of 35 tons and capable of maintaining 15 knots or greater.
Operators desiring additional information should contact Taylor E. Jones II, Director, Office of Sealift Support, Maritime Administration (202) 366-2323. Military utility questions should be directed to CAPT Timothy Lawrence, US Transportation Command (618) 229-1449/1529.
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