Red Air Drone Training
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, specifically the 45 CONS PK office at Patrick AFB, FL, has issued a Sources Sought notice for Red Air Drone Training. This is a Request for Information (RFI) to identify qualified contractors capable of providing Group 2 Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) target training services for HH-60W aircrews of the 301st Rescue Squadron. The government is conducting market research to inform a potential small business set-aside decision. Responses are due by March 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM Eastern.
Purpose
This Sources Sought notice is for market research only and is not a solicitation. The government seeks to gather information on contractor capabilities to instruct, practice, and familiarize HH-60W aircrews with tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for countering Group 2 UAS threats. The contractor would supply realistic targets and operational support for a four-day live-fly training event.
Scope of Work
The required services include providing:
- Four (4) Group 2 UAS targets meeting specific performance characteristics (e.g., 100-120 KIAS, below 500 feet altitude, minimum 3 hours endurance, controlled flight 20-25 NM from shore).
- Qualified personnel for UAS transport, assembly, launch, operation, and recovery.
- Execution of four (4) training days, comprising two "search and intercept" and two "intercept and kinetic engagement" sorties, culminating in target destruction.
- A single point of contact (POC) for coordination and attendance at pre-mission briefings.
- Removal of all company-generated waste and equipment daily from government facilities.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (RFI)
- Anticipated RFQ Number: FA2521-26-Q-B056
- NAICS Code: 611512 (size standard $34,000,000)
- Set-Aside: The requirement is being considered for a small business set-aside program. Market research will inform this decision.
- Period of Performance: June 22-26, 2026, with flexibility for weather/scheduling.
- Place of Performance: Launch, recovery, and ground support at Patrick SFB, FL. Air training operations in designated airspace 12-25 nm east of Patrick SFB over the Atlantic Ocean.
Submission Requirements
Interested firms should submit a capabilities package that includes:
- Company details (DUNS, CAGE Code, SAM registration expiration, GSA contract info if applicable).
- A proposed pricing schedule.
- No more than three past references with contact information and contract numbers.
- A brief description of the company's business size, status (e.g., 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, EDWOSB, small business), and anticipated teaming arrangements. Responses should not exceed 5 pages, be brief and concise.
Key Dates & Contacts
- Response Due: March 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM Eastern.
- Submission Emails: keona.franklin@spaceforce.mil and christopher.petrosky.4@spaceforce.mil.
- Primary Contact: Christopher Petrosky (christopher.petrosky.4@spaceforce.mil)
- Secondary Contact: Keona Franklin (keona.franklin@spaceforce.mil)