Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) UxS Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
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 Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) has issued a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to accelerate the development, procurement, and integration of Unmanned Systems (UxS) capabilities for the Joint Force and Special Operations Forces (SOF). NSWC seeks innovative solutions for "UxS as a service," First Person View (FPV) platforms, and UxS Training. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis for various Areas of Interest (AOIs) via the Vulcan Platform, with the overall availability ending December 31, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This CSO, issued under DFARS 212.70 and 10 U.S.C. §§ 4021-23, aims to provide new methods for delivering UxS systems. NSWC is looking for solutions that enhance mission effectiveness through platforms, payloads, Processing-Exploitation-Dissemination (PED), programming (firmware, software, AI), communications, Command and Control (C2) systems, components, and materials. The initiative supports NSWC, USSOCOM, Department of War, and U.S. Government partners.
Areas of Interest (AOIs)
The CSO outlines four specific Areas of Interest:
- AOI 1: "UxS as a Service" Solution: Seeking subscription-based models for UxS, including real-time feedback, updates, training, maintenance, and spare parts.
- AOI 2: FPV ISR Operations: Innovative commercial solutions to enhance user situational awareness through FPV systems for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR).
- AOI 3: FPV Kinetic Operations: Innovative commercial solutions for FPV systems capable of kinetic engagement, with encouragement for systems that can also perform ISR.
- AOI 4: UxS Training: Innovative solutions to improve user situational awareness through UxS platforms, focusing on maritime environments, autonomy, and training with innovative technologies.
Contract Details
Awards may be made as Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) contracts under FAR Part 12 or Other Transaction (OT) Authority agreements under 10 U.S.C. §§ 4022-23. The period of performance for individual solutions/proposals is generally no greater than 12 months.
Submission & Evaluation
The competitive process involves three phases:
- Phase I (Solution Brief/White Paper): Initial submissions via the Vulcan Platform.
- Phase II (Demonstration/Pitch): Selected solutions undergo demonstration and experimentation (optional, at offeror's expense).
- Phase III (Proposal): Companies with favorably evaluated solutions may be invited to negotiate contracts or agreements. Solution briefs are evaluated based on technical merit, innovation, importance to agency programs, and business viability. The Government may proceed directly to Phase III after Phase I.
Key Dates
- AOI 1 Submissions Due: January 25, 2026
- AOI 2 & 3 Bi-annual Submissions Due: January 9, 2026 and July 9, 2026
- AOI 4 Bi-annual Submissions Due: April 9, 2026 and October 9, 2026
- Overall CSO Availability Ends: December 31, 2026
Eligibility & Contact
This CSO is open to both traditional and non-traditional defense contractors. Foreign-owned businesses may submit independently or in teaming arrangements. Registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) is required for award. Submissions: Via Vulcan Platform (links provided in the full notice). Questions: NSW.CONTRACTING.CSO.SHDMBX@socom.mil Primary Contact: Stephanie Simpson (stephanie.simpson@socom.mil)