Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Rapid Maturation

The Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Rapid Maturation solicitation, issued by the Office of the Secretary of Defense under the Office of the Secretary of War, is a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) opportunity. This total small business set-aside is designed to determine the scientific, technical, and commercial feasibility of proposed ideas. The solicitation follows a three-phased structure, with Phase I typically lasting six to twelve months and Phase II generally spanning 24 months. Proposals must be submitted via the DSIP portal by November 25, 2026, at 17:00 UTC. Award selection is based on independent evaluations of technical and commercial merit, though all awards are subject to funding availability and a mandatory risk-based due diligence security review. Proposing small business concerns must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the SBA Company Registry. The contract incorporates stringent regulatory requirements, including CMMC cybersecurity compliance, Buy American and Balance of Payments program adherence, and prohibitions on foreign-made unmanned aircraft systems. Additionally, the agreement includes specific DFARS and FAR clauses regarding government property, export controls, and the protection of SBIR data rights.