Request for Information (RFI) for Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs)

SOL #: FA481926USVS1Sources Sought

Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSE

Dept Of The Air Force

FA4819 325 CONS PKP

TYNDALL AFB, FL, 32403, United States

Place of Performance

Place of performance not available

NAICS

Ship Building and Repairing (336611)

PSC

Combat Ships And Landing Vessels (1905)

Set Aside

No set aside specified

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/2e870d77ef4b4e21823533681bcbdbde/view

Timeline

Posted

Apr 15, 2026

Last Updated

May 1, 2026

Response Deadline

May 8, 2026, 8:00 PM

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 Department of the Air Force, specifically Tyndall AFB, is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs). This RFI is for market research and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract. The Air Force is exploring USVs to enhance maritime operational capabilities, persistent surveillance, and reconnaissance, aiming for reduced risk to personnel and lower operational costs. Responses are due by May 8, 2026.

Purpose & Background

Tyndall AFB seeks to understand the current state of USV technology, including advancements in autonomy, sensor integration, propulsion, and command and control systems. This information will guide the potential development of a future acquisition strategy for USVs to supplement and enhance existing maritime capabilities.

Information Requested

Interested parties are requested to provide comprehensive responses covering:

Company Information: Name, CAGE/UEI, relevant contracts, and experience in designing, manufacturing, or operating USVs.
Availability & Production: Current USV portfolio (TRL/MRL), production capacity, lead times, and available size classes.
Specifications & Performance: Detailed specifications for each USV platform, including dimensions, propulsion, payload capacity, seakeeping, autonomy (including COLREGS compliance), Command and Control (C2) systems, sensors/payloads, and hull type.
Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) & Life Cycle Costs: ROM costs for USV platforms with standard sensor packages, overview of life cycle cost drivers (fuel, maintenance, spares, training), and cost estimation models.
Maintenance & Support: Recommended maintenance concepts, MTBF/MTTR for critical subsystems, spare parts availability/lead time, operator/maintainer training, and technical support approach.
Regulatory & Operational Considerations: Current regulatory challenges and recommendations for a USV governance framework.

Submission Details

Responses must be submitted electronically to Robert Maher at robert.maher.5@us.af.mil by May 8, 2026. Submissions should be in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format, limited to a reasonable page count. Proprietary information must be clearly marked.