Commencement and termination of operations.

(a) Time frames. A Contractor that has been awarded a MSP Operating Agreement shall commence operations of the Eligible Vessel, under the applicable agreement or a subsequently renewed agreement, within the time frame specified as follows: (1) Existing vessel. Within one year after the initial effective date of the MSP Operating Agreement in the case of a vessel in existence on that date and after notification to MARAD within 30 days of the Contractor's intent; or (2) New building. Within 30 months after the initial effective date of the MSP Operating Agreement in the case of a vessel to be constructed after that date. (b) Unused authority. In the event of a termination of unused authority pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section, such authority shall revert to MARAD.