TEAL Drone (Black Widow)
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 (DEPT OF DEFENSE), specifically FA8052 773 ESS, is conducting a Sources Sought to identify highly specialized, NDAA-compliant sUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft System) for tactical observation and advanced integration with manned combat assets. The required system, referred to as "TEAL Drone (Black Widow)", must meet stringent performance and integration criteria. Responses are due April 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
The agency requires an sUAS with the following essential characteristics:
- Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T): Exclusive capability to operate near a target and forward live video/telemetry data directly to an in-flight F-35 for kinetic ordnance delivery.
- Situational Awareness: Native integration with the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) built into the core system architecture.
- Sustainability: A non-subscription cost model, eliminating mandatory recurring software licensing, support, and warranty fees.
- Performance: A ruggedized, portable airframe (~3.6 lbs) with 35+ minutes of flight time and advanced EO/IR sensors (Hadron 640R+).
- Compliance: Must be NDAA 2020 Section 848 and NDAA 2023 Section 817 Compliant, and listed as an approved unmanned aircraft product on the DIU BLUE LIST as of April 20, 2026.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Product Service Code: 1550 (Drones)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 27, 2026, 10:00 AM ET
- Published: April 20, 2026
- Place of Performance: San Antonio, TX, United States
Evaluation
This is a market research effort to identify potential sources capable of meeting the specified requirements. Responses will inform future acquisition strategies.
Additional Notes
This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or guarantee a future award. Interested parties should review the full description for detailed requirements. The primary contact is Meredith Parker.