Starling 2 Max
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 Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division, China Lake, intends to award a firm fixed-price sole source contract to Modal AI for 14 Starling 2 Max units. This notice is an intent to sole source, not a request for quotes, as Modal AI is identified as the only source offering the required product.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for 14 Starling 2 Max units, which are specifically needed due to their compatibility with existing swarm software and full integration with the current autonomy computer.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Notice of Intent to Sole Source (Firm Fixed Price)
- Intended Awardee: Modal AI, 10855 Sorrento Valley RD Suite 2, San Diego, CA 92121
- Quantity: 14 Each Starling 2 Max
- Set-Aside: None (Sole Source)
- Response Due: May 27, 2026, at 0900 PST
- Published: May 21, 2026
Evaluation
This is not a request for competitive quotes, and no solicitation or RFQ will be issued. However, interested parties may identify their interest and capability to respond by the due date. Responses must reference solicitation number N68936-26-SIMACQ-D500000/E500000-0114 and provide a clear, concise capability statement demonstrating the ability to perform the required work without compromising quality, accuracy, reliability, and schedule.
Additional Notes
All responsible sources must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) at www.sam.gov. Contractors also need to be certified through Defense Logistics Information Services (DLIS) to access Controlled Unclassified Information. New and updated SAM registrations require a notarized letter for the Entity Administrator, which may take several days to process.