Recoverable Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems for Frontline Operational Awareness and Surveillance Missions

The Department of Homeland Security, through the Drone Development Program, is conducting market research via Request for Information 70RSAT26RFI000030 to identify recoverable, reusable, lightweight, and rapidly deployable small unmanned aircraft systems. These multirotor systems are intended to support a wide range of frontline missions, including surveillance, search and rescue, incident response, perimeter security, disaster assessment, maritime awareness, and law enforcement support. DHS is seeking complete kits that include the air vehicle, ground control station, electro-optical or infrared camera payloads, and necessary training and support materials. Key requirements include NDAA compliance and adherence to Blue UAS, Green UAS, or equivalent cybersecurity and supply chain maturity standards. This RFI is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation. However, the government is requesting estimated pricing for quantities ranging from 10 to 50,000 units, noting a target price of approximately 3,000 dollars per kit for high-volume production. Future acquisition strategies may involve a multiple-award IDIQ, catalog-based ordering, or a phased award approach. Interested respondents must submit a cover page, a completed summary table, and a narrative response not exceeding three pages to DHSDPD@hq.dhs.gov by November 5, 2026. Evaluation of potential systems may eventually focus on rapid deployment, video quality, range, endurance, and the ability to scale production.