Iraq to build two OSVs under accelerated newbuild programme

The US Navy has released an urgent tender to build two OSVs for the Government of Iraq.

The contracts call for the building of two vessel under Iraq’s future procurement programme, which the US Navy intends to expedite. Indeed, the US Navy is calling for an accelerated delivery schedule for the newbuild vessel and has specifically said that it would not consider converting existing vessels.

The first OSV must be delivered by July 2011, and the second must be delivered by November 2011.

The US Navy said that it would not be involved with any discussions between Iraq and any shipyards interested in the tender. However it stipulated that all discussions between the builder and Government of Iraq would be non-binding and would not obligate the US Government to enter into any contract.

The tender calls for a steel monohull design based on an ABS unrestricted service under ABS’ Steel Vessels Under 90M Rules, A1, circle E, AMS and DPS-2.

Over all hull length should be over 55 metres but less than 65 metres. The speed should reach a maximum of 16 knots fully loaded. Two or three marine diesel engines are expected to drive the vessels.
 

Source: Baird Maritime