Micro-Uncrewed (UxS) Systems for Dangerous Vessel Compartment Inspections
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 United States Coast Guard (USCG) Research and Development Center (RDC) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify vendors capable of providing Micro-Uncrewed Systems (Micro-UxS) for inspecting dangerous vessel compartments. This effort aims to enhance operational effectiveness and determine industry capabilities. Responses are due by June 27, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI is part of a market research initiative by the USCG RDC to explore emerging technologies that can improve the efficiency and safety of vessel inspections, particularly in difficult-to-access internal compartments. The focus is on Micro-UxS, including "Micro-ROV," "Micro-Drone," or "Micro-Robotic Crawler" systems. The USCG seeks to understand the availability and capabilities of such systems to support operational needs.
Information Requested
The USCG is seeking detailed information on Micro-UxS systems that can fly, crawl, or be submerged in confined spaces while carrying inspection payloads. Systems should align with the American Bureau of Shipping's "Guidance Notes on The Use of Remote Inspection Technologies, December 2022." Eligible responders are inspection service providers with custom-configured, contractor-owned, and contractor-operated Micro-UxS equipment. Submissions must address:
- System Overview: Description, support equipment, operational concept, launch/recovery, footprint, Technology Readiness Level (TRL), size/weight/power (SWAP), payload/sensor details, intrinsic safety certifications, assembly/calibration, operation duration, environmental limitations, sustainment, mobility, navigation, autonomous capabilities, certification methods, and compliance with National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) cybersecurity requirements.
- Cost: Available configurations, costs, maintenance, logistics, and software update schedules.
- Performance: Effective coverage area, location accuracy, system limitations, operation with shipboard Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), and data transfer capabilities.
- Demonstration Availability: Specify demonstrable Remote Inspection Technologies (RITs) and Remote Inspection Vehicles (RIVs), and confirm if systems are demonstrable at TRL 6 or greater by December 2026.
Submission Requirements
Respondents must submit a one-page cover letter including company information (POC, UEI, business size, NAICS) and a detailed response addressing all requested technical information. Previously awarded contracts and points of contact should also be included. Electronic responses are limited to ten (10) pages, excluding glossary or attachments. Submissions should be sent via email to smb-comdt-coco31acquisitions@uscg.mil and Ross Vassallo (ross.r.vassallo@uscg.mil) with the subject line: "RFI Response – 70Z02326RFI0003 – UxS Systems -Jenkins". Large files should be split into multiple emails (<=10 MB each).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: June 27, 2026, at 03:59 AM UTC
- Published: June 11, 2026
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment by the Government to award a contract.