How to bid on UAS Material CYs 2027-2032 from the DEPT of the Navy

What the agency is buying

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) plans to award a sole-source, five-year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract modification to Insitu, Inc. This contract is for RQ-21A Blackjack, Integrator, and ScanEagle Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) hardware. The hardware includes air vehicles, payloads, turrets, spare parts, and support equipment. This equipment will support international partners.

While this is a planned sole-source award to Insitu, Inc., other companies may submit capability statements for consideration. This is an opportunity for firms to make the agency aware of their capabilities, even though it is not a competitive request for proposals.

Key dates and deadlines

This Request for Information (RFI) was published on September 11, 2026. All capability statements must be submitted by September 25, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. The agency anticipates awarding the contract in the third quarter of fiscal year 2027.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is primarily for companies that can demonstrate they are a responsible source for UAS hardware, specifically RQ-21A Blackjack, Integrator, and ScanEagle systems. The agency states that Insitu, Inc. is the sole designer, developer, and manufacturer, and the only known source with the necessary technical data and experience. However, any responsible source may submit a capability statement for the agency's consideration.

How to respond

To access the opportunity, you will need to click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even for a sole-source RFI, a well-prepared capability statement is important. Clearly articulate your firm's expertise and experience with similar unmanned aircraft systems or related hardware. Highlight any unique technical data, manufacturing capabilities, or logistics support experience that could meet the agency's requirements for RQ-21A, ScanEagle, or Integrator UAS.

Focus on demonstrating how your company could satisfy the agency's needs, even if they currently believe only one source can. Provide concrete examples and evidence of your capabilities. Ensure your submission is concise, professional, and directly addresses the types of hardware mentioned in the RFI.