1.5.1-JOFOC_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (J&A) document for a sole-source procurement by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

ICE proposes to procure a Small, Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) and operational support from Auterion Government Solutions, LLC (Auterion) on a sole-source basis under the authority of 41 U.S.C. §3304(a). The contract is new, firm-fixed-price (FFP), with a base year of six months and an estimated total value that is redacted. Funding is from Asset Forfeiture Direct Operations & Support Funds (O&S) for FY 2026, with solicitation number 192126VHQ6TEC0033. The sUAS will support Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Technical Operations with mission-ready aviation capability for criminal investigations, tactical surveillance, infrastructure monitoring, search operations, and response to emerging threats while ensuring interoperability and data sharing across DHS and interagency partners. The system must be reliable, secure, easy to transport, and suitable for varied field environments, with appropriate training, maintenance support, and lifecycle sustainment procedures.

Market research conducted from January through August 2026 determined that Auterion is the only responsible source capable of meeting HSI's requirements. The justification documents that evaluated alternatives fail to meet operational, transportation, flight endurance, supply chain, safety, or cost requirements, and would impose significant integration burdens and financial/logistical costs on HSI. A sources-sought notice was posted on SAM.gov on August 4, 2026 (closing August 10, 2026), with one responder determined technically unable to fulfill the need. The Contracting Officer will determine fair and reasonable pricing using RFO Subpart 15.404-1 methodologies prior to award, with future competitive procurements planned as the market evolves and additional vendors demonstrate mature, integrated solutions.