Maritime Capabilities Replacement Programme (MCRP) Intelligent Client Function

In support of the Home Office Maritime Capabilities Replacement Programme (MCRP), the Authority is exploring the procurement of an Intelligent Client Function (ICF). The ICF would provide technical oversight of the shipbuild programme through a forward deployed ‘waterfront’ capability at the shipyard(s).

As part of the initial market engagement exercise, Border Force is looking to engage with interested suppliers to better inform a future procurement with respect to capacity, capability, costings and timelines.

Please see section 11.7 for additional detail on the procurement and how to participate. Additional information: The Authority acting through Border Force (BF) is conducting a review of its maritime capabilities with potential for a replacement of the current fleet. The current fleet consists of 5 Cutters and 6 Coastal Patrol Vessels (CPVs). The precise mix of vessels has not yet been agreed and will be informed by Market Engagement.

The new vessels will be required to contribute to Maritime Security through cross Government working (particularly with the MOD/Royal Navy) and provide support to the Military in a National crisis response.

The role of the Intelligent Client Function will be to provide an experienced, visible, and proactive presence at the Shipyard(s) acting as the local representative of the Programme team, to monitor and manage successful delivery of the shipbuild programme to quality, schedule, and cost. This will include, but not be exclusive to. examining, reporting and facilitating the resolution of construction and quality issues, ensuring that all work is carried out in accordance with the contract and with the construction drawings, and where requested supervise the testing of the vessel and all her machinery and equipment during construction, commissioning, and acceptance.

Whilst the Home Office is labelling this requirement as an Intelligent Client Function, please note similar services are often referred to as ‘‘Technical Support Service’, ‘Buyer’s Representative’ or ’Client Friend’.

Noting the additional capabilities required and associated security sensitivities, the ICF will be procured via the Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011 (as amended) or as a defence and security contract under the Procurement Act 2023 if a tender notice is issued after its commencement (28 October 2024). It is expected that UK, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies suppliers will be allowed to bid for this opportunity.

Suppliers who are interested in participating in our market engagement are requested to submit their expression of interest by e-mailing bfvesselsteam@homeoffice.gov.uk by 17:00 (UK) on 26th July 2024 (subject to change). Please ensure that the subject field states “9482 – MCRP Intelligent Client Function - MSQ)”.

Following receipt of expressions of interest, suppliers will be invited to a virtual supplier briefing Industry Day event which is expected to take place on the week commencing 29th July 2024 (subject to change).