Autonomous Navigation and AI Algorithm Development

The contract entails the development of advanced artificial intelligence-driven algorithms for autonomous multi-copter unmanned aerial systems, specifically focused on navigation, real-time obstacle avoidance, swarm coordination, and dynamic mission planning tailored for research applications. The work is intended to enhance the operational autonomy and intelligence of these systems in complex, unstructured environments common to scientific field studies, requiring robust machine learning models, sensor fusion techniques, and adaptive decision-making frameworks that can function without constant human oversight. The algorithms must be designed to operate reliably under variable environmental conditions and support seamless communication and collaboration among multiple drones in coordinated teams. This is a subcontract opportunity issued by the National Research Council of Canada under the Government of Canada, classified under NAICS code 541715 for research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences. The solicitation was posted on June 9, 2026, with a submission deadline of July 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. The place of performance and specific office address details are not provided, but the nature of the work suggests that deliverables may need to be tested in Canadian research facilities or field environments under the oversight of the National Research Council. The contract is not subject to any set-aside preferences, and while no point of contact is listed, interested parties are directed to the official Canadian procurement portal for further information and submission requirements.