Group 3 UAS Support (May 2026)
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 (23d Fighter Group) is conducting a Sources Sought for Group 3 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Support for a training exercise in South Georgia, USA, during May 2026. This market research aims to identify capable vendors for manned low observable (LO) aircraft systems and drone operations training support. Responses are due by April 17, 2026.
Purpose and Scope of Work
This Sources Sought is for market research to identify potential sources capable of providing service and training opportunities for exercise operations. The contractor will supply up to two (2) Group 3 manned (pilot onboard) LO aircraft and equipment to support a training exercise in South Georgia, USA, during May 2026. The primary objective is to complete a training objective focused on low and slow fixed-wing UAS threat detection and targeting. Aircraft will operate as "red forces" in a "DRY" (no live fire) capacity over land.
Key requirements include:
- Operating drone-like aircraft for four (4) consecutive days in May 2026, for 4 hours daily.
- Providing up to two (2) Group 3 manned aircraft (pilot onboard) that are contractor-owned, Low Observable (LO), less than 20 feet in dimension, and capable of mimicking Group 3 drone maneuvers.
- Conducting full-spectrum operations, including launch and recovery, mission planning participation, and operating in designated airspaces.
- Controlling manned Group 3 aircraft to emulate adversary unmanned aircraft systems.
- Operating altitudes between 2,000 to 18,000 feet and speeds from 80 to 160 knots.
- Maintaining continuous communication with a designated planning cell POC.
- Ensuring the ability to reach designated Military Operating Areas (MOAs) and obtaining necessary FAA approval.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Period of Performance: Four (4) consecutive days in May 2026
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 17, 2026, by 7:00 PM ET
- Published: April 15, 2026
Response Requirements
Interested parties must provide their company name, address, CAGE Code, SAM UEI, main point of contact, and a capability statement demonstrating the ability to meet the requirements. Additionally, specify all socio-economic statuses (e.g., large business, small business, SDB, 8(a)).
Additional Notes
This notice is solely for market research and does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or a commitment by the Government to issue an order or contract. No reimbursement will be made for response costs. Potential quoters are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for further information. Responses should be sent via email to SSgt Justin De Jesus (justin.de_jesus@us.af.mil), referencing Sources Sought ID FA483026Q0019 in the subject line.