U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) last Friday said it plans to contract with a systems integrator for help with counter unmanned systems (CUxS) with an initial focus on countering unmanned aerial systems (CUAS).
SOCOM said it expects a competition to begin in the third quarter of this year with an award expected late in the first quarter of 2021. The Request for Information (RFI) issued last Friday will enable the command to prepare an acquisition strategy for the integration of a CUxS family of systems.
The systems integration partner will integrate the CUAS sensors and systems to provide a layered defense for Special Operations Forces outside the U.S., “Provide modular and scalable recommendations on the optimal sensor/system package for a given mission set or deployment location,” help field solutions, provide initial training for sensors as they are fielded and any follow-on training, and maintain sensors and systems.
Responses to the RFI are due by May 13 and SOCOM plans to host virtual one-on-one industry meetings the week of May 18-22. The anticipated contract will have a one-year base period, four one-year options, and five one-year incentive option term periods.