UAS CAMERAS/SENSORS
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 U.S. Forest Service (USFS), under the Department of Agriculture, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for UAS Cameras/Sensors. This RFI is for market research purposes only to identify potential Offerors capable of providing various camera/sensor payloads for Unmanned Aircraft (UA) used by the USFS. The information gathered will assist the USFS in developing its acquisition strategy and requirements documents. Responses are due by 1200 hours MT on June 12, 2026.
Scope of Interest
The USFS is seeking information on camera/sensor payloads compatible with Freefly AltaX and Freefly Astro UA for applications such as mapping, surveying, situational awareness, and capturing high-quality stills and video of National Forests and Grasslands. Specific interest areas include:
- Full-Frame Photography Camera
- Multi-Sensor IR/EO/LRF Payload
- Thermal + Multispectral Imaging Payload Offerors should provide UAS and payload specifications and can respond for one or multiple payload types. Live demonstrations may be requested at a future date.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Special Notice (for market research only)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: June 12, 2026, by 1200 hours MT
- Published: May 6, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Responses must be submitted in PDF format and emailed to steven.b.peterson@usda.gov. Submissions must include the Offeror's Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). This RFI does not constitute a solicitation for proposals, nor does it commit the Government to pay any costs incurred by Offerors. Responses will be used for market research to inform future acquisition strategies. Equipment not meeting minimum agency needs or integration requirements may not be considered for demonstrations.
Additional Notes
This is strictly for market research; no funds have been authorized or appropriated for this effort. Any costs incurred are at the Offeror’s own risk. The RFI details extensive technical, operational, environmental, and interface requirements for each payload type, including sensor specifications, performance metrics, stabilization, data storage, and deliverables.