The Department of Defense is seeking advanced aerial surveillance solutions through a Small Business Set-Aside procurement. The primary goal is to acquire cutting-edge vertical takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) aircraft designed for public safety applications. These drones must be equipped with advanced sensors, camera systems, and real-time data transmission capabilities, enabling efficient emergency response, disaster management, and border security operations.
The scope of work for vendors includes supplying VTOL craft with specific performance capabilities, as well as their integration, training, maintenance, and lifecycle support. Vendors must also provide data processing software and establish a robust data management infrastructure.
The procurement also hints at a potential multi-year contract, valued at over $2 million, with key dates outlined in the full Request for Proposal (RFP). The RFP will provide further details on the requirements and expectations for the successful awardee.
To be eligible, vendors must have a current NIST SP 800-171 assessment, with exemptions for Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) items. Applicants should be prepared to fulfill the requirements and submit signed and completed solicitations via email or fax.
The evaluation process will assess the aircraft's performance, durability, and reliability, with emphasis on surveillance capabilities. However, technical merit, past performance, and price will also be considered. The submission deadline is 12:00 PM on July 31, 2024, with inspections and deliveries scheduled for July 19, 2024.
For further clarification or questions, interested parties can contact Jack Edwards at jack.edwards@dla.mil or via phone at 360-813-9577.