A -- Unmanned Aircraft Systems Validation and Integration Program

The 46th Test Group at Holloman AFB, New Mexico intends to issue a sole source contract to Regents of New Mexico State University, Physical Science Laboratory, Stewart and Espina Street, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003-8002. This sole source contract "Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Validation and Integration Program" will be for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations, flight test, research and validation. This effort will include a research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) program to address technological, regulatory, procedural, and operational aspects of flying UAS in the National Airspace System (NAS). This program will support any category of DoD and other Federal UAS users in all airspace classes. The focus shall address issues related to the safe operation of UAS in the NAS, with an emphasis on small to medium UAS. The Program will operate and modify as necessary the Flight Test Center established to support UAS flights and the production of data relevant to safe flight. This program shall coordinate with FAA approved Medium Altitude Endurance airspace, Low Altitude Endurance airspace, as well as local, regional, and border UAS airspace. The developed UAS airspace shall be based upon the New Mexico State University/Physical Science Laboratory FAA-issued Certificates of Authorization and other airspace that is identified as high priority by users. Utilize special use airspace when UAS hazard analysis exceeds reasonable limits for the NAS. The UAS flight area in the NAS is located northwest of Las Cruces, New Mexico. This airspace and other sites of interest will be used for enabling technology testing, and operational program flights. The Aerostar unmanned aircraft shall be utilized along with other UAS platforms in the conduct of flights. Direct all questions and routine communication concerning this acquisition to Ms. Dana J. Alexander, Contract Specialist at, 850-882-0161, e-mail address dana.alexander@eglin.af.mil or fax 850-882-4561. Collect calls will not be accepted. See Numbered Notes 22 and 26.