Small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) Development and Delivery
Challenge ended
Description
One Nation Innovation, in close collaboration with the XVIII Airborne Corps and the 20th Engineer Brigade, is proud to issue this capability challenge as part of a strategic effort to accelerate technological integration within operational units. This challenge seeks to identify, evaluate, and acquire advanced Small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) solutions from qualified commercial vendors, research institutions, and defense technology developers.
Overall Objective
The objective of this challenge is to design, manufacture, and deliver up to 100 cutting-edge sUAS platforms that are cost-effective, attritable, and capable of operating within GPS-denied and contested environments. Selected systems must be engineered to seamlessly integrate with government-furnished autonomous ground launch platforms, support rapid deployment, and enable collaborative multi-system control for future force applications. This challenge encompasses the full lifecycle delivery of sUAS systems including: • Hardware: Complete aerial platforms with payload capacity, radio systems, and launch adapters. • Software: Mission programming interfaces, autonomous navigation capabilities, and system diagnostics tools. • Integration Readiness: All systems must be compatible with a broader multi-vendor ecosystem and mission architecture under development by partner units. • User Training and Field Support: Comprehensive operator training packages and Field Service Representative (FSR) support during live experimentation events at designated locations within the continental United States. Vendors are expected to deliver a comprehensive solution that includes: • Development of sUAS meeting the technical and operational requirements • Integration with government-provided launch platforms • Delivery of hardware and software • Provision of training and field support for experimentation • Collaborative efforts with other vendors for system integration
Problem Statement
The challenge emphasizes rapid prototyping, field experimentation, and agile delivery to enable near-term operational assessments and long-term force modernization. Vendors should demonstrate both technical excellence and a collaborative posture, as successful proposals will contribute to a unified capability package aimed at enhancing operational reach, tactical flexibility, and mission survivability. This effort reflects a growing shift toward open innovation models, where military units and innovation-focused organizations co-develop solutions in partnership with non-traditional defense partners. We welcome bold, adaptive solutions that reflect the evolving demands of multi-domain operations and the Army of 2030.