Advanced Communications Experiment – Cross-border Autonomous Vehicle Session Persistence Experiment and Research

Quick Summary

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), in collaboration with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC CSS), is seeking participants for the 2026 Advanced Communications Experiment Cross-border Autonomous Vehicle Session Persistence Experiment and Research (ACE-CASPER). This experiment aims to evaluate 5G session persistence and connectivity with Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Autonomous Vehicles (AV) in a cross-border emergency scenario. Responses are due May 8, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. EST.

Purpose

The ACE-CASPER experiment will simulate a national emergency response along the U.S.-Canada border to assess how AVs, UAS, and 5G-enabled technologies can support persistent cross-border communications, enhance situational awareness, and improve coordination between U.S. and Canadian response teams. The primary objective is to demonstrate secure, resilient 5G session persistence across U.S. and Canadian border networks, seamless command and control (C2) handoff, real-time data interoperability, and bi-national response coordination. The focus is on validating reliable 5G connectivity and C2 performance, with vehicle autonomy level being secondary.

Scope of Participation

Participants are sought to demonstrate solutions for UAS and AVs that ensure secure, resilient 5G connectivity and real-time situational awareness. Key requirements include:

• UAS: 5G-capable platforms (3GPP Release 18+ SA modem), VTOL, live HD video, single/multi-SIM, FAA Part 107/135 pilots, 5 km range, 100m flight ceiling, BVLOS control, payload delivery up to 5 lbs, 30+ min flight duration, C2 capabilities, Detect and Avoid (DAA).
• AV: Autonomous/semi-autonomous/remotely supervised operation, BVLOS control, 5G for C2 and data sharing, live HD video, 5 km terrestrial coverage, 5G modem (3GPP Release 18+ SA), C2 capabilities, DAA alerting.
• General: Technologies must be TRL 6+, prototypes available by May 29, 2026, willingness to integrate with other technologies, and solutions compatible with existing public safety infrastructure.

Participation Details

This is not a contract award. Selected organizations will enter into a Limited Purpose Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (LP-CRADA). No money will be exchanged. DHS S&T provides the test environment, and participants use it while sharing data. DHS will not be liable for technology damage.

Submission & Evaluation

Interested organizations must submit a completed Attachment 1 ACE-CASPER Submission Form and an optional 5-page whitepaper via email to NGFR@hq.dhs.gov by May 8, 2026, 5:00 p.m. EST. The subject line should be "(Org Name) Application – 2026 ACE-CASPER Experiment." Priority will be given to applications that are fully complete, describe integration capabilities using open standards, and offer solutions compatible with existing infrastructure.

Key Dates

• Submission Deadline: May 8, 2026, 5:00 p.m. EST
• Prototype Availability: No later than May 29, 2026
• Integration Test Event: Late Fall 2026
• Dry Run: Late Fall 2026
• Final Experiment: November 2026

Additional Notes

This is a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) for market research and planning purposes only. Participation offers an opportunity to showcase technology to DHS S&T, DRDC, and public safety stakeholders. Proprietary information must be clearly marked. Not responding does not preclude future participation if a solicitation is issued.

Contact Information

Email: NGFR@hq.dhs.gov