USCG Robotics and Autonomous Systems Program Executive Office – Medium Range UAS

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the RFI for the USCG Robotics and Autonomous Systems Program Executive Office – Medium Range UAS.

• Incumbent Contracts: The requirement is not new. Incumbent contracts are 70Z02324D93130001 (Shield AI Inc.) and 70Z02318C2DAU0400 (Insitu Inc.).
• RFI Due Date: The correct RFI response due date is May 8th, as confirmed by Amendment 1.
• TRL 8 Requirement: System TRL 8 is required at the time of contract award, notionaly expected in Q3 of FY27.
• Erroneous Attachments: References to attachments J-12, J-18, and J-13-01 were included in error and should be disregarded. Additional guidance will be provided in future RFPs.
• Cybersecurity: Cutter cybersecurity level information will not be publicly provided. Offerors must be able to meet and maintain an Authority To Operate (ATO) at the time of contract award.
• Delivery Timeline: Notionally, systems should be ready for deployment in Q3 of FY27.
• Interoperability (GFI): Specific Coast Guard domain information will be provided in subsequent requests for proposals.
• Remote Video Terminals (RVTs): RVTs must be supplied by the contractor.
• Life Support: In remote locations, the government will endeavor to provide initial "life-saving" services until transfer to civilian/higher level of care can be conducted, as medical capabilities vary by site.
• Security Clearances: Only key personnel and deployers require security clearances.
• Technical Volume Reference: This column in Attachment J-3 can be a name of the reference only; specific verbiage is not required.
• Competitive Structure: The USCG intends to qualify multiple BOA holders per cutter class and compete orders among them. RFPs will be issued at the ordering level.
• J-2 vs. J-3 Inconsistencies: J-2 SPS reflects the correct requirements and specifications and should be considered the master document.
• Laser Designator: The USCG requests a laser designator, not a laser illuminator.
• FDA Laser Certification: The vendor must be able to turn on the laser legally. The Coast Guard is not DoD and cannot receive a DoD exemption. FDA approval must be provided for immediate use.
• Wide Area Sensor: The WMSL requirement for a Wide Area sensor should match other ship classes; the description provided is intended to cover a broader set of payloads.
• NIIRS Requirements: The USCG will consider the recommendation to replace NIIRS requirements with VNIIRS for motion imagery evaluation but will make a proper adjustment for the RFP phase.
• Flight Deck Dimensions: J-2 SPS reflects the correct requirements and specifications.
• Relative Wind Limits: The "45 knots from any true direction" clarification for shore-based operations is confirmed.
• MISP vs. MISB: The USCG will make a proper adjustment for the RFP phase regarding the reference to MISP.
• Shore Based Scene Time and Range: J-2 SPS values (Threshold 24hr @100 miles, Objective 48hr @ 200 miles) are the correct values for shore-based requirements.
• Technical Volume Reference Column: This column is for referencing where requested information is found in the capability statement package.

This document clarifies several points regarding requirements, attachments, and submission details, which will impact how vendors prepare their responses for future solicitations.

Amendment / Modification

This document is Amendment 01 to a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought notice. It clarifies the purpose and scope of the RFI, which is to conduct market research for airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) services using Groups 2 and 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) on a Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) basis. The services will support the U.S. Coast Guard's (USCG) maritime ISR mission and are intended to be procured via orders against a Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA) with a ten-year period of performance.

• Introduction: Clarifies the RFI's purpose as market research for USCG ISR services using Groups 2 and 3 UAS.

• Objective: Details the USCG's need for COCO ISR services, including requirements for Sensor Data production, trained personnel, non-developmental UAS equipment, operation and maintenance, spare UAS assets, and deployed mission support. It also seeks vendor feedback on contract vehicle approach and UAS operational capabilities.

• Scope/Description: Outlines the intent to establish a BOA with qualified offerors for services on various USCG cutter classes and shore-based sites. It specifies how requirements (threshold vs. objective) will be prioritized and evaluated. Anticipated platforms include specific cutter classes and shore regions (Atlantic, Pacific, Alaskan/Arctic).

• Requested Information and Submission Instructions: Vendors are instructed to submit a capability statement package (max 15 pages) demonstrating their ability to perform the services, referencing Attachments J-1, J-2, and J-3. Specific company information, feedback on contract vehicle, aircraft performance, and commercial service delivery are requested.

• Responses/Submission: The deadline for RFI responses is May 8, 2026, by 4:00 PM EST, submitted via email to cgras-info@uscg.mil. The subject line must be "RFI Response to USCG PEO RAS MRUAS ISR Services".

• Format: Specifies formatting requirements for responses, including page limits, font size, and file types.

• The RFI due date remains May 8, 2026. The amendment primarily provides further detail and clarification on the requirements and submission process for this market research effort.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

This document outlines the U.S. Coast Guard's (USCG) intent to assess industry's capability to provide Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) services using Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) Group 2 and 3 Medium Range Unmanned Aircraft Systems (MR UAS).

• Maritime ISR Operations: Conduct Surveillance, Detection, Classification, and Identification (SDCI) of maritime targets, deliver real-time imagery and data, and provide target illumination/communications relay.

• Operational Tempo: Services required include persistent 24-hour continuous coverage for shipboard and shore-based operations, with specific weekly/monthly hour requirements.

• Operational Environments: Services are needed for USCG cutters (National Security, Offshore Patrol, Ice Breaker, Medium Endurance) and shore-based regions (up to 35 sites), including Atlantic and Pacific areas, and Alaskan/Arctic areas.

• UAS Classification: Must be Group 2 or Group 3 UAS.

• Maturity and Readiness: System must be fully assembled, tested, operational, TRL 8, and possess necessary certifications (ATO, Frequency Spectrum, laser, Blue UAS list).

• Interoperability: Must integrate with the Coast Guard domain, transmit data to compatible USCG assets, and comply with FAA, FCC, and ICAO standards.

• Shipboard Integration: Equipment must fit existing space without structural changes. Laser systems require FDA certification, and Lithium batteries require NAVSEA certification with specific energy limits and safety container requirements.

• Provide and maintain UAS and personnel, logistics, life support, and equipment.

• Support annual Program Management Reviews and post-deployment reviews.

• Manage installation and de-installation, including on-site technical assistance.

• Provide comprehensive logistics and maintenance, including spare parts and battery disposal.

• Adhere to shipboard safety policies and maintain electromagnetic compatibility.

• Possess a SECRET Facility Security Clearance and ensure personnel have appropriate clearances.

• Comply with statutes regarding foreign-made UAS and USCG/DoD cybersecurity requirements.

• Issue orders with advance notice and guarantee minimum deployment length.

• Provide JP-5 fuel, berthing, meals, and 120-volt electrical power for cutter-based operations.

• Provide crane services for equipment handling.

• Serve as lead integrator for technical installation drawings and provide an Alteration Installation Team (AIT).

• Sponsor government testing.

• Operational Testing and Evaluation (OT&E): Occurs on the first outfitted ship/region.

• System Operational Verification and Test (SOVT): Contractor conducts pier-side and underway tests post-installation.

• Operational Test (OT): USCG conducts independent OT on each cutter class and shore-based site. A 30-day window is provided to rectify deficiencies if threshold requirements are not met.

• Threshold requirements are mandatory; systems not meeting them will not be considered. Objective requirements are desired but not required. Requirements are prioritized and indicated in plain text (minimum), italics (prioritized), and bold text (highest priority).

• Additional performance characteristics exceeding SPS are acceptable as optional capabilities.

Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought

This RFI is a market research tool used by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Robotics and Autonomous Systems Program Executive Office (CG-RAS PEO) to identify potential and eligible businesses capable of providing airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) services. The services will utilize Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (COCO) Groups 2 and 3 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) aboard various USCG cutters and shore-based sites. The USCG intends to establish a Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA) for these services, with potential orders issued over a ten-year period (one five-year base ordering period plus one five-year option period).

• Production of Sensor Data.

• Trained personnel.

• Non-developmental UAS equipment.

• UAS certifications.

• Operation and maintenance of UAS.

• Spare UAS assets.

• Deployed mission support.

• Services must support ISR missions requiring persistent imagery with various sensor types.

• Capability to provide ISR services on a normal and surge basis, 24/7/365.

• Support includes pre-deployment, deployment, and post-deployment activities, such as equipment transportation, export control licensing, insurance, personnel travel, visa coordination, and regulatory compliance.

• A Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA) is anticipated.

• Orders will be issued against the BOA.

• Period of performance: One five-year base ordering period plus one five-year option period (total of ten years).

• Interested vendors must submit a capability statement package (max 15 pages).

• The response should demonstrate the ability to perform services based on Attachments J-1, J-2, and J-3.

• Key submission components include:

  • Company information (Size, Status, UEI, interest in BOA participation).
  • Feedback on the USCG's intended contract vehicle and suggested alternatives.
  • Feedback on aircraft performance specifications and additional beneficial capabilities.
  • Feedback on commercial service delivery.

• Responses are due May 7, 2026, by 4:00 PM EST.

• Submissions must be electronic via email to cgras-info@uscg.mil.

• Subject line for email: "RFI Response to USCG PEO RAS MRUAS ISR Services".

• File size limit of 10MB recommended.

• Not specified in this document; however, the BOA will be competed on a Limited Sources basis.

• Vendors meeting requirements may be selected for the BOA.

• Competitive selection for orders will occur from the pool of BOA participants.

• This RFI is for market research only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract.

• No funds are available to pay for response preparation.

• Information provided is subject to change.

• Vendors are encouraged to review Attachment J-1 (Statement of Objectives), Attachment J-2 (System Performance Specification), and Attachment J-3 (Requirements Verification Traceability Matrix).

• Anticipated NAICS Code: 541370.

• Platforms include National Security Cutters, Medium Endurance Cutters, Ice Breakers, Polar Security Cutters, Offshore Patrol Cutters, and shore regions (Atlantic, Pacific, Alaskan/Arctic).

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document, an Excel file named 'J 02 and J 03_08APR2026.xlsx', contains detailed specifications and performance characteristics for various cutter classes (WMSL, MEC-270, MEC-210, OPC, ICE BREAKERS) and outlines specific requirements for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) intended for integration with these platforms. It serves as a technical reference for potential bidders.

• Cutter Specifications: Provides dimensions, performance, crew capacity, and mission profiles for different Coast Guard cutter classes.
• UAS Performance Specifications: Details requirements for UAS including airspeed, service ceiling, operational tempo, flight deck operations, detectability, fuel, battery, airworthiness, and flight clearance.
• System Requirements: Outlines specifications for payloads, communications (datalinks, spectrum, encryption, RVT), navigation (GPS), identification (transponders), electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), ISR data products (FMV, still imagery, metadata), and information assurance.
• Platform-Specific Requirements: Differentiates requirements based on the host cutter (e.g., WMSL, MEC-270, MEC-210, OPC, ICE BREAKERS, FRC).

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the technical capabilities and performance standards for a UAS that must operate from various Coast Guard cutters. It details critical aspects such as sensor capabilities, communication ranges, operational endurance, environmental tolerances, and integration requirements. Bidders must carefully review these specifications to ensure their proposed UAS solution meets all stated requirements, including those related to platform compatibility, operational tempo, and data product quality.