SOURCES SOUGHT: Outdoor Small Uncrewed Aircraft System
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 conducting a Sources Sought for market research to identify vendors capable of providing one Small Uncrewed Aircraft System (sUAS) Airframe & Operator Control Unit with specific attachments. This is not a Request for Quotation and aims to determine potential eligible firms and whether a small business set-aside is appropriate. Responses are due May 5, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
NIST's Public Safety Research Division (PSCR) requires an outdoor-flight capable sUAS for flight testing, drone simulator comparison, and developing standard test methods for link loss research, supporting scientific research for first responders. The market research will inform the method of acquisition and potential solicitation.
Key Requirements
NIST seeks a modular, sub-55-pound multirotor sUAS capable of outdoor flight, NDAA and/or TAA Compliant, with an IP55 (aircraft) / IP54 (OCU) rating. Key features include a minimum 40-minute flight time, GPS-denied position-hold, 360-degree obstacle avoidance, 4K video, infrared and telephoto navigation cameras, gimbal stabilization, and specific accessories like RTK/PPK GPS, payload dropper, parachute, spotlight, and speaker. Delivery is required by August 19, 2026, with a 1-year base warranty.
Submission Requirements
Interested firms should submit a capability statement (limited to five pages) including:
- Company Profile (employees, office locations, UEI, CAGE Code)
- Name of product provider and manufacturer (with country of origin)
- Specification sheets and product examples meeting requirements
- Typical lead time (delivery, installation, training)
- Verification of small business status
- Any other relevant information.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This is a market research tool. NIST will consider all small business set-aside categories if at least two qualified small businesses are identified. Responses are sought from all responsible sources, including large and small businesses (SB, SDB, WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB, VOSB). The NAICS code is 336411 – Aircraft Manufacturing (1,500 employee size standard). Vendors must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an active UEI/SAM.gov registration at the time of award.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought
- NAICS: 336411 – Aircraft Manufacturing
- Response Due: May 5, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: April 23, 2026
- Contact: Clifford Nicholson (clifford.nicholson@nist.gov)
Additional Notes
This announcement does not commit the Government to award a contract, nor will it pay for information received. Company sales brochures or marketing packages will not be considered.