Request for Information (RFI) Regarding Systems and Technologies to Support Persistent Wide-Area Air Surveillance

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a Request for Information (RFI) to explore technologies for a Persistent Wide-Area Air Surveillance (PWAAS) system aimed at enhancing airborne threat detection along U.S. borders. CBP's Air and Marine Operations (AMO) seeks readily deployable systems that ensure continuous surveillance over a diverse range of aerial threats, especially small, non-cooperative aircraft that current systems may not effectively detect. The RFI emphasizes the need for an adaptable solution capable of operating under various environmental conditions while prioritizing high detection probabilities. The document outlines specific focus areas, including mission planning, technology solutions, and innovative business strategies for acquiring a PWAAS solution. Interested parties are invited to provide insights into their technologies, approaches to integrating systems, and strategies for rapid deployment while minimizing risks. Submissions are requested to include detailed mission planning proposals, technology specifications, corporate qualifications, and innovative procurement strategies, with a submission deadline established. The government aims to evaluate responses to inform a prospective acquisition strategy for enhanced air surveillance capabilities.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights on technologies that support Persistent Wide-Area Air Surveillance (PWAAS) for the Air and Marine Operations (AMO). This RFI aims to enhance the capability of surveillance systems, focusing on detecting diverse airborne threats, particularly small, non-cooperative aircraft. CBP seeks to innovate and potentially replace outdated detection systems that currently face challenges in identifying such threats across varied terrains and weather conditions. The document outlines the necessity for continuous surveillance capabilities and emphasizes the importance of employing a robust system architecture that integrates various detection technologies. The RFI specifically invites proposals for mature, rapidly deployable solutions that can provide high probabilities of detection for airborne objects while reducing operator burden due to complex system management. Respondents are encouraged to submit detailed information on technological solutions, mission planning strategies, and business approaches, including ideas for innovative procurement methods like a “Fee for Service” model. The anticipated next steps include limited deployment of chosen systems along the southwestern border, aiming for effective integration and operational readiness by FY26, with a budget consideration of under $5 million per system. The RFI emphasizes collaboration and knowledge-sharing to optimize acquisition strategies and meet the evolving surveillance demands of AMO.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights on Persistent Wide-Area Air Surveillance (PWAAS) technologies aimed at enhancing air domain awareness along national borders. This RFI is primarily for market research purposes and does not obligate the government to contract. The CBP's Air and Marine Operations (AMO) oversees over 1,800 personnel and utilizes various air and maritime surveillance technologies. However, there is a growing need for upgraded systems capable of detecting “small, dark targets,” such as UAVs, in diverse environments and weather conditions. The document outlines the necessity for systems that offer continuous, accurate detection of airborne objects, aiming for a detection probability of 80-100%. The RFI seeks technologies that can be quickly deployed, feature AI and machine learning capabilities, and reduce the workload on operators. Potential business strategies for procurement include "Fee for Service" models and fusion procurements. Interested parties are invited to respond with detailed information regarding mission approaches, technical specifications, and corporate capabilities by August 29, 2025. The responses will influence the acquisition strategy for developing an advanced aerial detection solution to bolster national security objectives.

This government RFI clarifies several key aspects regarding a proposed solution for addressing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) threats. The government expects the sensor/radar component of the solution to cost less than $5 million. The RFI is open to various data exchange methods beyond AMOSS integration, encouraging responders to address data standards and enhanced capabilities in their white papers. The government's Concept of Operations does address non-cooperative, non-emitting threats, and responders are invited to provide recommendations. An extension to the submission due date is not being considered. While a standard interface control document will not be provided initially, relevant standards will be available upon solicitation. Finally, the government is considering all submissions for fixed, mobile, and redeployable platforms.

The Request for Information (RFI) from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) seeks mature, deployable ground-based persistent wide-area air surveillance systems. These systems are intended to enhance Air Domain Awareness (ADA) by detecting small, non-emitting, non-cooperative aircraft, which current systems struggle with. The RFI focuses on solutions that provide continuous surveillance in diverse conditions, integrate with existing architecture (AMOSS), and ideally require minimal human interaction through automation. It also explores innovative business strategies like