Outdoor Small Uncrewed Aircraft System
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, is seeking quotations for an Outdoor Small Uncrewed Aircraft System (sUAS). This combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ NB671000-26-01304) is for commercial products to support the Public Safety Research Division (PSCR) at NIST for flight testing, drone simulator comparison, and development of standard test methods. This acquisition is being conducted on an unrestricted basis. Quotations are due by June 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM Mountain Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement includes two Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs):
- CLIN 0001 – Outdoor Small Uncrewed Aircraft System Airframe and Operator Control Unit (1 EACH): A modular, sub-55-pound multirotor sUAS that is NDAA and/or TAA Compliant. Key features include IP55 (aircraft) and IP54 (OCU) ratings, sub-60 second startup, minimum 40-minute flight time, GPS-denied position-hold, 360-degree obstacle avoidance, 4K video, IR/telephoto cameras, gimbal stabilization, and robust wind handling (25 mph gust). It must include batteries, charger, storage case, and spare propellers.
- CLIN 0002 – Attachments (1 LOT): This includes an RTK/PPK GPS, Payload Dropper, Parachute, Spotlight, and Speaker. Delivery is required no later than August 19, 2026.
Contract Details
- Type: Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order
- NAICS: 336411 – Aircraft Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,500 employees)
- Set-Aside: Unrestricted
- Warranty: A base manufacturer warranty of 1-Year is acceptable.
- Regulations: Governed by FAR Part 12, FAC 2026-01, Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO), and Department of Commerce Acquisition Policy. Applicable provisions and clauses are detailed in Attachment 2, including the Buy American Certificate (FAR 52.225-2).
Submission & Evaluation
- Quotation Due: June 8, 2026, 1:00 PM MT.
- Inquiries Due: June 5, 2026, 5:00 PM MT.
- Submission: Electronic quotations must be emailed to clifford.nicholson@nist.gov and divided into three volumes: Technical, Price, and Terms and Conditions.
- Eligibility: Vendors must have an active SAM.gov registration (UEI) at the time of award and possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). An Autonomy Drone Software License is required. US citizens are required on-site for visits; foreign nationals require pre-registration 30 days prior.
- Evaluation: Award will be made to the responsible quoter with the lowest priced, technically acceptable quotation, considering Technical Capability and Price. No prototypes or used/refurbished instruments will be considered. The government reserves the right to award without discussions.
Contact Information
For questions, contact Clifford Nicholson at clifford.nicholson@nist.gov or 303-497-5185.