Unmanned Carrier-Based Aircraft Solutions Request for Information (RFI)

PROCUREMENT OVERVIEW

The Department of the Navy, specifically the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), is seeking information regarding Unmanned Carrier-Based Aircraft Solutions through a Request for Information (RFI). The core objective of this RFI is to gather insights and capabilities from potential bidders to support the development and integration of unmanned aircraft systems that can operate from aircraft carriers. This initiative aims to enhance naval aviation capabilities and ensure operational effectiveness in various mission scenarios.

ISSUING ORGANIZATION

The issuing organization is the Department of Defense, Department of the Navy, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR HQS), located in Maryland, USA. The primary contact for this RFI is Samantha Moore, who can be reached via email at [email protected].

KEY DATES

• Posted Date: August 5, 2026
• Proposal Due Date: August 13, 2026
• Anticipated Award Date: Not specified
• Performance Period: Not specified

CONTRACT DETAILS

The contract type and estimated value have not been explicitly mentioned in the RFI. Bidders should prepare for a variety of contract types, as the RFI is exploratory in nature.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

To be considered eligible, bidders must meet the following mandatory requirements:

• Certifications and Registrations: Bidders must be registered in SAM.gov.
• Security Clearances: Specific security clearance requirements have not been detailed.
• Set-Aside Restrictions: No specific set-aside categories (e.g., 8(a), HUBZone) have been mentioned.
• Geographic Restrictions: No geographic restrictions or place-of-performance requirements have been specified.
• Experience Requirements: Minimum years of experience or past performance requirements are not detailed.
• Bonding or Insurance Requirements: No bonding or insurance requirements are specified.

TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES

Bidders should possess expertise in unmanned aircraft systems, particularly those suitable for carrier operations. Specific technologies, methodologies, or standards have not been outlined, but familiarity with naval aviation systems and integration processes is likely essential.

DELIVERABLES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Key deliverables and performance standards have not been explicitly defined in the RFI. Bidders should be prepared to outline their proposed deliverables and performance metrics in their responses.

EVALUATION CRITERIA

The evaluation criteria for proposals have not been explicitly stated. Bidders should anticipate that proposals will be evaluated based on technical approach, past performance, and potentially price, though specific weighting or prioritization is not provided.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

While not mandatory, bidders may enhance their competitiveness by demonstrating:

• Relevant experience in developing or integrating unmanned carrier-based aircraft systems.
• Preferred certifications related to aerospace engineering or unmanned systems.
• Innovative methodologies or technologies that could enhance operational effectiveness.

Overall, bidders should focus on their capabilities in unmanned systems and readiness to support naval aviation initiatives while preparing their submissions for this RFI.