The Air Force requests information from industry for a next-generation Small Unmanned Air Systems (SUAS) platform to support the service’s Special Operations Command (AFSOC) dismounted users, according to a notice posted on Federal Business Opportunities.
The RFI is only focusing on existing capabilities, i.e. matured technologies and fielded systems. The next-generation SUAS addresses a capability gap of current SUAS platform and joint forces requirement for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) with appropriate sensors to penetrate and operate with persistence in enemy airspace, according to the RFI.
Penetrating ISR forces should incorporate a diverse, integrated range of sensors to support the detection, classification, identification, precise geo-location and characterization of objects of interest, according to the RFI. The SUAS must operate in day and night and adverse weather as well as denied battle space, according to the RFI.
Potential participants in the RFI include AAI Unmanned Aircraft Systems [TXT] and Boeing [BA]. AAI beat out Boeing in the U.S. Special Operations Command competition for a three-year, nearly $600 million contract for Mid-Endurance Unmanned Aircraft Systems (MEAUS) (Defense Daily, April 12).
The RFI can be viewed at: http://bit.ly/JVMdj3