BVLOS-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Range

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is seeking competitive proposals from qualified vendors to operate and maintain a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) test range, with the contract expected to run through June 30, 2029. The procurement, posted on September 17, 2025, has a closing date of October 28, 2025, and involves a contract valued between $500,000 and $2 million. Bidders must submit separate technical and cost proposals, adhering to detailed formatting instructions, including electronic files in Word, Excel, or searchable PDFs, with a maximum size of 20MB per email. The scope encompasses establishing, maintaining, and demonstrating an operational BVLOS test range, with deliverables including semi-annual reports, equipment ownership, and compliance with industry standards and applicable codes. The award will be based on a best value determination, considering factors such as technical understanding, experience, methodology, and cost, with no explicit weighting assigned. The contract incorporates specific state-required provisions, notably the Kansas Form DA-146a contractual provisions attachment, which governs legal, compliance, and termination clauses. Bidders must certify compliance with laws including the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Public Law 115-232 Section 889 regarding telecommunications equipment, and policies against discrimination, sexual harassment, and the Boycott of Israel. They are also required to submit a current Tax Clearance Certificate and detailed business information, including organizational structure and references for similar projects. The procurement process emphasizes strict adherence to submission deadlines, proper labeling of proposals, and ongoing monitoring for amendments. The agreement is governed primarily by Kansas statutes and regulations, with no explicit federal FAR clauses referenced, and all contractual modifications must be in writing. The selected vendor will be responsible for providing all labor, materials, and equipment necessary to ensure the test range's successful operation, with performance and quality standards aligned with industry best practices and applicable regulatory requirements.