Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) UxS Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
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 Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) has issued a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to accelerate the development, procurement, and integration of Unmanned Systems (UxS) capabilities for the Joint Force, Special Operations Forces (SOF), and allied SOF. NSWC seeks innovative commercial solutions for "UxS as a service," First Person View (FPV) platforms, and UxS Training. Awards may be made via Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) contracts or Other Transaction (OT) agreements. Submissions are accepted via the Vulcan platform, with varying deadlines for four Areas of Interest (AOIs).
Purpose & Scope
This CSO aims to enhance mission effectiveness by acquiring advanced UxS capabilities, including platforms, payloads, Processing-Exploitation-Dissemination (PED), programming (firmware, software, AI), communications, and Command and Control (C2) systems. NSWC is particularly interested in subscription-based "UxS as a service" models and solutions that support undersea systems. The competitive process is multi-phased, running through 2026/2027.
Areas of Interest (AOIs)
- AOI 1: "UxS as a Service" Solution: Seeking subscription-based models for complete UxS systems, emphasizing undersea systems and cost-effective solutions.
- AOI 2: FPV ISR Operations: Innovative commercial solutions for FPV systems to enhance individual user situational awareness for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR).
- AOI 3: FPV Kinetic Operations: Innovative commercial solutions for FPV systems enabling individual users to kinetically engage targets/locations.
- AOI 4: UxS Training: Innovative commercial solutions to improve user situational awareness through UxS platforms, focusing on maritime environments, autonomy, and innovative training technologies.
Contract Details
- Type: Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) under DFARS Subpart 212.70, leading to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12 Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) contracts or Other Transaction (OT) agreements (10 U.S.C. §§ 4022-23).
- Period of Performance: Generally no greater than 12 months for solutions/proposals, unless negotiated.
- Place of Performance: United States, CA 92155.
Submission & Evaluation
The process involves three phases:
- Phase I (Solution Brief/White Paper): Initial submissions via the Vulcan Platform (links provided in the original notice). Evaluated by Government SMEs for technical merit, innovation, importance to agency programs, and business viability.
- Phase II (Demonstration/Pitch): Selected solutions undergo demonstration and experimentation. This phase is optional and at the offeror's expense.
- Phase III (Proposal): Companies with favorably evaluated solutions may be invited to negotiate contracts or agreements.
Eligibility
This CSO is open to both traditional and non-traditional defense contractors. Non-traditional Defense Contractors (NDCs) are encouraged. Foreign-owned businesses may submit independently or in teaming arrangements. Companies must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to receive an award.
Key Dates
- AOI 1 Submissions: Extended to April 7, 2026.
- AOI 2 & 3 Bi-annual Submissions: Due NLT December 31, 2026.
- AOI 4 Bi-annual Submissions: Due NLT October 9, 2026.
- Overall Response Date: December 31, 2026.
Contact Information
For inquiries, email NSW.CONTRACTING.CSO.SHDMBX@socom.mil.