NDAA Compliant Drone
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is soliciting proposals for a National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) compliant drone for aerial observation on and near NIST sensitive areas. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity. The required system must be a current model, new, and include a thermal package, smart controller, and SAMO payload. Offers are due March 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
The contractor shall deliver one (1) NDAA compliant drone system. Key components and requirements include:
- Drone System: 1x Dual-band airframe, 1x Smart controller, 1x Battery charger, 1x Propeller set CCW, 1x Propeller set CW, 5x Smart battery, 1x SAMO payload (640x512 radiometric + 64MP), 1x Standard CX-GB100 20MP camera, 1x Hard case, 1x Triple cradle charger.
- Condition: Must be a current model, new equipment only (no used, remanufactured, experimental, prototype, custom, or "gray market" components).
- Documentation: Shipped in original manufacturer's packaging with all original documentation and software.
- Services: Authorized Reseller Certificate, One (1) Year Warranty, and Virtual Training (as requested).
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Solicitation
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- Place of Performance: NIST Gaithersburg Campus, MD.
- Period of Performance: One month after contract award.
- Published Date: March 18, 2026
- Response Due Date: March 23, 2026, 1:00 PM ET
- Delivery: Within 30 business days of award, F.O.B Destination to NIST Gaithersburg. Awardee SHALL confirm with the Designated Government Official and Contracting Officer prior to ANY shipment due to limited site access.
Evaluation
Offers will be evaluated based on Technical Capability and Reasonable Price. Offers must clearly document the capability to meet all specified technical requirements.
Additional Notes
- The Government reserves the right to perform performance tests and evaluations. Acceptance testing includes visual inspection and potential operational tests. The Government will test, inspect, and accept or reject equipment within 10 business days of receipt.
- A minimum one-year warranty is required, commencing upon Government acceptance.
- Payment will be made upon receipt of a proper invoice and acceptance of deliverables.
- Questions are due no later than 2 calendar days prior to the solicitation close date, via email to sasha.bradford@nist.gov.