Question. From whom do you plan on purchasing these ships? "We plan, as I have indicated, to issue RFPs to industry. Many of the ships are no longer economical in the trade or will soon be laid up. We anticipate a great many of these ships will be offered. Question. Are you considering procuring any foreign built ships for this program? 59 elections will be on a competitive basis, with the intent w obtain the most capability for the lease cost. We have not ruled out foreign ships. If Offerors are willing to reflag a foreign vessel and accomplish all required work in U.S. shipyards, these vessels will be considered. In this manner, Navy could acquire the needed sealift for the RFP program while adding to the total number of ships under the U.S. flag. Question. How old are the ships that you are considering pur- chasing