Request for Information : Voluntary Observing Ship ( VOS ) Program

2026-11-03

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ( NOAA ), National Weather Service ( NWS ), National Data Buoy Center ( NDBC ) is conducting market research on the capabilities of vendors to support the NDBC Voluntary Observing Ship ( VOS ) Program . Please see the attached Request for Information and Attachment 1 - DRAFT Statement of Objectives . The following question was received in response to this RFI : QUESTION : Is NOAA intending to continue serving as the primary entity responsible for servicing the approximately 2 , 800 participating vessels , or is the VOS program exploring a transition of that service role and responsibility to an industry partner ? RESPONSE : Yes , NOAA intends to continue serving as the primary entity responsible for the VOS Program . NOAA is seeking commercial partners that can provide support in maintaining and growing the VOS Program to ensure long - term viability . NOAA is hoping that responses to this RFI will provide information to aid in understanding what commercial partners could offer to help sustain the program .

Mississippi

2026-04-29