Group 2 unmanned aircraft system (UAS)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force, specifically the 439th Security Forces Squadron, is soliciting proposals for a Group 2 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). This requirement includes the procurement of one multi-rotor hexacopter drone, initial operator training, and a one-year maintenance plan. The system will enhance situational awareness and support installation security at Westover Air Reserve Base, Chicopee, MA. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Offers are due April 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a Group 2 UAS, training, and maintenance. The UAS must be a multi-rotor hexacopter, constructed of carbon fiber, powered by six brushless motors, and incorporate an advanced autopilot system equal to or exceeding the Pixhawk Blue Cube. Key specifications include a weight of 20-25 lbs, maximum cruise air speed of 40 mph, 5 lbs payload capacity, minimum 45 minutes battery life, minimum 4 miles distance, and an emergency recovery parachute system. The drone must be an Approved UAS under Section 44807.
Services include:
- Initial Operator Training: A two-day, onsite program for UAS operators, supervisors, and maintenance personnel. This training covers system architecture, safety, Ground Control System (GCS) operations, flight practice, and routine maintenance. It includes onsite instruction, digital materials, certificates of completion, and 12 months of access to a secure training video library. The training program is capped at $1,000 and provides a "Train the Trainer" certification.
- Yearly Maintenance Plan (1st year only): This involves preventive and scheduled maintenance per OEM specifications, recurring software and firmware updates (quarterly on-site), proactive monitoring and replacement of life-limited and high-wear components using OEM-approved parts, and robust configuration management.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Single award, Firm Fixed Price.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5).
- Place of Performance: Westover Air Reserve Base/Building 2510, Chicopee, MA, or a pre-determined offsite Air Force approved maintenance facility.
- RFI Questions Due: April 06, 2026, 12:00 noon.
- Offers Due: April 13, 2026, 12:00 noon.
- Anticipated Delivery: August 2026 for the drone system.
Evaluation Criteria
Award will be based on Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA).
- Technical Acceptability: Offers must demonstrate 100% conformance to the Performance Work Statement (PWS) and complete 100% of the "Drone CLIN Structure" document.
- Price: The lowest price will be ranked highest among technically acceptable offers.
Actions Required by Offerors
- Complete and fill out 100% of the "Drone CLIN Structure" document.
- Submit a specification sheet for the proposed drone.
- Ensure active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to proposal submission.
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: KYLE KALAGHER (KYLE.KALAGHER.1@US.AF.MIL)
- Secondary Contact: Robert E. Stacy (robert.stacy.2@us.af.mil)