Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) detection and analysis services
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 Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is conducting a Sources Sought for Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) detection and analysis services at Merritt Island, FL. This market research aims to identify capable sources to protect NASA personnel, assets, and security interests from unauthorized UAS flights. NASA KSC is seeking capability statements from all interested parties, including small businesses, to determine the appropriate level of competition and potential set-asides. Responses are due February 9, 2026.
Scope of Work
The services will involve providing UAS detection and analysis capabilities that can accurately detect and identify unknown UAS out to at least 40 nautical miles (with a goal of 100 NMI). The system must provide rapid, timely information to multiple users for response and mitigation, be fully compatible with FBI, US Air Force, and US Space Force counter-UAS systems, and offer real-time detection and alerting. Key requirements include:
- Identification and operational information (type, serial number, location, speed, direction, operator location).
- Alerts for unknown drones and notifications for known/whitelisted drones.
- Independent data paths and a user-accessible, map-based dashboard.
- Continuous 24/7 coverage with rapid (within 24 hours) on-site support.
- At least two primary detectors at separate remote KSC locations, with two co-located secondary sensors.
- System must be sanitized, isolated, and independent of NASA communications and IT systems.
Key Requirements & Clarifications
- Detection & Identification: The system must provide UAS type and serial number, implying RF detection systems. The 40 NMI detection range is a firm requirement.
- Data & Alerts: Required data includes UAS location, altitude, speed, heading, operator position, serial number, and historical flight path. Alerts should be real-time with minimal false alarms.
- Integration: Compatibility with existing FBI, USAF, and USSF counter-UAS hardware, systems, and processes is crucial.
- Personnel: On-site personnel will be required for special events, system setup, maintenance, and upgrades.
- Radar Restrictions: All radiating sources must be approved by the NASA-KSC Spectrum Manager.
Industry Engagement & Submission
NASA KSC intends to hold one-on-one meetings with interested parties the week of March 2, 2026, following the receipt of capability statements. Firms should submit a capability statement (no more than 20 pages) detailing company information, socioeconomic status, specific capabilities relevant to the requirements, and applicable past performance. Responses must be submitted electronically to Justin Ko (justin.j.ko@nasa.gov) by February 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. Questions regarding this Sources Sought are due by January 21, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time to the same email address.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought
- NAICS: 561621, Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths) ($25M size standard)
- Set-Aside: None specified (considering various small business set-asides)
- Performance Start (Anticipated): April 1, 2026
- Response Due: February 9, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
- Questions Due: January 21, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
- Published: January 14, 2026
Contact Information
- Primary Point of Contact: Justin Ko (justin.j.ko@nasa.gov)