Group 2 unmanned aircraft system (UAS)

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Memorandum for Record from the 439 SFS/CC detailing the salient features required for a "Group 2 Drone". It outlines specific technical and operational requirements for the drone.

This document is relevant to potential bidders as it specifies the key features and capabilities the government is looking for in a drone. Bidders should review these requirements to determine if their offerings meet the government's needs. Key features include:

• Delivery Schedule: August 2026
• Aircraft Configuration: Multi-rotor (Quad or Hexacopter)
• Frame Material: Carbon Fiber or equivalent
• Motors: (4 or 6) Brushless Motors
• Autopilot: Greater than or equal to Pixhawk Blue Cube
• Weight: 20 lbs to 25 lbs
• Minimum Cruise Air Speed: 20 mph
• Payload: 5 lbs (per current FAA restrictions)
• Battery Life: Minimum 45 Minutes
• Distance: Minimum 4 miles
• Approvals: Approved UAS under Section 44807 and must be Part 135 Certified.

The document also provides a point of contact for further inquiries: MSgt Adam Tremblay.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Performance-based Work Statement (PWS) outlines the services required for the 439 Security Forces Squadron/439 MSG to ensure the continuous and optimal operation of designated Group 2 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) equipment.

• Contractor will provide all necessary equipment and supervision for UAS operation.

• Develop and execute a preventive and scheduled maintenance program based on OEM specifications, including inspections, cleaning, calibration, and functional testing.

• Perform recurring updates of all equipment software and firmware every other month, no later than the last calendar day of the month. Updates will be completed quarterly on-site.

• Proactively monitor and replace life-limited and high-wear components using OEM-approved parts to prevent downtime.

• Establish and maintain a robust configuration management system, tracking hardware/software inventories, documenting changes, and keeping system diagrams, operational manuals, and maintenance logs current.

• Not explicitly detailed, but emphasis on "optimal operation" and "prevent equipment downtime" implies performance expectations.

• Services will be conducted at Westover Air Reserve Base/Building 2510 or a pre-determined offsite Air Force approved maintenance facility.

• Training: A two-day, onsite training program for government personnel (UAS operators, supervisors, maintenance personnel) is required. This training covers system architecture, safety procedures, GCS operations, flight practice, and routine maintenance. It includes onsite instruction, digital materials, completion certificates, and 12 months of access to a secure training video library. This is initial familiarization, not advanced training or flight certification.

• Training Cost: The training program cost is capped at $1,000, covering all associated expenses. This fee includes a "Train the Trainer" certification for participants, enabling them to train other personnel internally. Contractor covers all travel and lodging expenses for instructors; these costs are not billable to the government.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Sole-Source Justification for the procurement of the DEXA DE-2020 autonomous aircraft system. The justification outlines the agency's need for a drone capable of autonomous delivery of supplies (up to 5 pounds) and autonomous airborne surveillance, identification, tracking, and response for small, unmanned aircraft systems operating in or near restricted airspace. The contract type is Firm-Fixed-Price, to be executed via Government Purchase Card (GPC).

• Requirement: Procurement of one DEXA DE-2020 autonomous aircraft system.
• Estimated Value: $24,999
• Period of Performance: June 1, 2026 – July 31, 2026
• Authority: Justified under RFO 6.103-1(b) – One responsible source.
• Justification: DEXA is cited as the only vendor with FAA S-1 Approved List certification and the necessary regulatory posture for Beyond-Visual-Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) operations. Market research indicated no other vendors could provide a comparable system.
• Past Competition: A previous competitive bid process was initiated but cancelled due to a lack of competition, with no responsible sources submitting proposals.
• Future Actions: The agency will continue to monitor the market for emerging competitors and may explore alternative platforms or solutions to support broader competition in the future.