Unmanned Aerial System (UAM)
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 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), is soliciting quotations for an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) with remote sensing cameras. This combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ) seeks a system capable of supporting conservation and production research at Bushland, TX. The acquisition is Unrestricted, with a preference for domestic, US manufactured and assembled systems. Quotations are due March 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM PT.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for one (1) UAS system, including:
- VTOL capability with four folding/quick-release propellers and a second set of batteries.
- GPS guidance with automatic flight control and a UAS flight monitoring tablet.
- Minimum 2 lb payload capacity and 30 minutes flight time (no payload).
- Hard-sided carrying case.
- Dual camera capable, servo-driven gimbal with quick release.
- Multispectral Camera: High resolution (1.6 MP per band) for blue, green, red, red edge, near infrared bands; simultaneous RGB and panchromatic (5.1 MP) capture; downwelling light sensor.
- Thermal Camera: Longwave infrared, 640 x 512 resolution, 30 Hz runtime.
- Image capture rate of two scenes per second.
- Onsite training for operation and maintenance.
Contract Details
- Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ) for commercial items.
- Award Intent: Single award, Firm Fixed Price contract.
- Set-Aside: Unrestricted, with preference for domestic, US manufactured and assembled systems. Prohibited manufacturers (e.g., DJI, Autel Robotics) must be avoided.
- Delivery: FOB Destination to USDA-ARS Conservation and Production Research Laboratory, Bushland, TX, by July 1, 2026. Early deliveries are accepted.
Submission Requirements
Offerors must submit the following via email to Elizabeth Calhoun (Elizabeth.Calhoun@usda.gov) by the deadline:
- Firm Fixed Price quotation on company letterhead, detailing item description, place of manufacture, total price, and valid for at least 60 days. Price must be inclusive of all costs, including installation.
- Completed Attachment 3- SF 1449 and provide Past Performance References as specified in Attachment 3.
- SAM.gov Unique Entity ID (UEI).
- Capability Statement and technical documentation demonstrating ability to meet performance elements.
Evaluation Criteria
Award will be made to the responsive, responsible contractor offering the best value to the Government, based on an integrated assessment of:
- Technical Capability: Slightly more important than price and past performance.
- Past Performance: Evaluated as Acceptable or Neutral.
- Price: Must be fair and reasonable. The Government intends to award without discussions but reserves the right to conduct them.
Key Dates & Contact
- Questions Due: March 20, 2026, by 2:00 PM PT.
- Quotations Due: March 27, 2026, by 2:00 PM PT.
- Contact: Elizabeth Calhoun, Elizabeth.Calhoun@usda.gov. Include solicitation title and notice ID in all communications.