Maintenance of two (2) Seaexplorer underwater gliders (SEA021 and SEA024)

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has a requirement to perform maintenance on two (2) of their Seaexplorer gliders. This maintenance is meant to reach the latest standards and benefits, like a new depth rating of 1000m, new payload electronic board and installation of propellers. It includes the replacement of more than 50 parts, which all need to be fully compatible with the glider system. The maintenance must be followed by a sea acceptance test and must be covered by warranty for six 6 months.

The glider SEA021 is not operational because it was attached by a white shark in 2024. The rear picking point needs replacement/serviced and the glider’s flying capability needs to be restored and confirmed. The glider SEA024 is not operational because it shows corrosion on different bulkhead connectors. The glider needs regular maintenance service which includes all those connectors replacements. The primary goal is to have two fully-functional, science-ready gliders at the completion of the repair/maintenance service.

Any interested supplier must demonstrate by way of a statement of capabilities that it meets the following requirements:

The Contractor must be capable of completing the refurbishment of all Seaexplorer glider subassemblies (nose cone, lifting points, anode bulkheads, o-rings, battery movement support, vacuum fitting, oil reservoir, external oil bladder, emergency release system, fins, ethernet and powering bulkheads, depth sensor) with fully compatible parts.

The Contractor must be capable of changing the rechargeable lithium battery pack and its Battery Management System (BMS) with a fully integrated battery.

The Contractor must be capable of upgrading all necessary parts to acquire a new depth rating of 1000m.

The Contractor must be capable of providing a new X3 payload board and new flexible water inlets Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

The Contractor must be capable of installing propellers on one of the two gliders

The Contractor must be capable of conducting a four (4) days sea acceptance test after the maintenance is completed

The Contractor must provide a six (6) months warranty after the maintenance is completed.

The Contractor must provide the glider parts, their own repair facility and logistics for refurbished glider testing.

The Contractor must repair gliders SEA021 and SEA024 such that the gliders are fully functional again.

The Contractor must be able to deliver refurbished glider to BIO on or before March 31, 2026.