Except as excluded by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Article, the Contract Price includes, and Contractor shall pay when due, all United States, state, county, city and all other taxes, assessments and duties of every kind lawfully assessed or levied against or with respect to each Vessel and any material, supplies, or equipment used in the performance of this Contract in connection with such Vessel (excepting, however, material, supplies and equipment furnished to Contractor by Purchaser) to the extent such taxes, assessments and duties are assessed or levied (i) prior to Delivery; or (ii) with respect to any period preceding or ending with Delivery.  Contractor shall indemnify, defend, and hold Purchaser harmless from liability from the aforesaid United States, state, county, city and all other taxes, assessments and duties with respect to each Vessel and any materials, supplies, or equipment used in performance of this Contract.