Intent to Sole Source Archer 8" Drone Platform
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 25th Marine Regiment, Marine Forces Reserve has issued an Intent to Sole Source for the procurement of 20 Archer 8" FPV Drones and associated training for 20 Marines. The Government intends to award a Firm-Fixed-Price contract to Neros Technologies, INC. This is not a request for competitive quotes, but interested parties may submit capability statements. Responses are due May 14, 2026.
Requirement & Justification
The requirement is for the Archer 8" FPV Drone system for the 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, to enhance communication, surveillance, and ordnance capabilities. The justification for sole source is based on several factors:
- The Archer system holds a DMCA BLUE USAS certification, ensuring supply chain security and compliance with NDAA Section 848.
- It offers a unique combination of operational range and payload capacity in a compact form factor, not met by other Blue UAS-cleared platforms.
- The Archer platform is the primary FPV system for the Marine Corps and other Department of War branches, ensuring interoperability and training continuity.
- Market research identified Neros Technologies, INC as the sole responsible source and distributor.
Contract Details & Set-Aside
- Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP)
- Sole Source Authority: FAR 13.106-1(b)(1) or FAR 6.302-1
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- Product Service Code: 1550 (Drones)
- Department/Agency: Dept Of Defense / DEPT OF THE NAVY
- Place of Performance: OK, United States
Submission & Eligibility
This is not a request for competitive proposals. However, interested parties may submit a capability statement demonstrating their ability to meet the Government's requirement, specifically as an authorized distributor or by providing technically equivalent equipment. Capability statements must be submitted via email to the points of contact by the response date.
Key Dates
- Published Date: May 11, 2026
- Response Date: May 14, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
Points of Contact
- Contracting Officer: Mr. Franklin Smith (franklin.smith@usmc.mil)
- Contract Specialist: Sergeant Jordyn Edwards (jordyn.edwards@usmc.mil, 504-697-8355)