RFI_20251209.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 29 KB Posted
- Attached to
- Training in the fabrication and flying of First Person View (FPV) small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS)
- Solicitation number
- H9224026Q2001
- Issued by
-
United States Special Operations Command
About this file
This Request for Information (RFI) document contains 73 detailed questions and responses for a Navy Special Warfare (NSW) solicitation for First Person View (FPV) drone training. The requirement is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside contract for a training course in fabricating and flying small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), with a base year performance period from 15 January 2026 to 14 January 2027 and options for subsequent years.
The training course will be 80 hours long, comprising 35 hours of academics, 5 hours of drone build, and 40 hours of flight time, with up to six personnel per class. Students will build two 5" FPV drones and take them home after training. Key training objectives include internal clearance, vehicle interdiction, and target engagement in various environments. Critical requirements include NDAA compliance, avoiding Chinese-made components, FAA Part 107 certification for students, and a staff-to-student ratio of 1:5. The solicitation emphasizes flexibility for vendors to propose solutions that meet or exceed the Performance Work Statement requirements, with a best-value tradeoff evaluation approach.
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Other files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment 1 - PWS_20251209.pdf | ||
| RFQ_H9224026Q2001-00001_20251209.pdf | ||
| RFI_20251118.xlsx | XLSX spreadsheet | |
| RFQ_H9224026Q2001_20251112.pdf | ||
| Attachment 1 - Performance Work Statement.pdf |
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Text version
Sheet1
| Requests for Information | |||
| # | Question | Response | Date Provided |
| 1 | Do we know what FPV drones will be used for the training? Neros? Redcat Fang? etc. | Vendor will need to provide solution with quote. Critical components should be NDAA compliant to the max extent practicable. All parts should come from non-covered countries to the max extent practicable. Specific platforms are not requested. | 11/18/25 |
| 2 | Ref: PWS 4.3.1.2 Is the Government open to electronic delivery of any of these materials as an augmentation to the classroom instruction, or does the Government prefer that all academic materials be provided in a traditional printed/Powerpoint format? | Prefererred that the course material is provided in person. Students can leave the course with electronic copies of course material but the initial delivery should be in person. | 11/18/25 |
| 3 | Can foreign national instructors with specialized combat FPV experience provide training at our US facility with appropriate work authorization? | Instructor experience/background will be evaluated based on the offeror's abilitiy to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 11/18/25 |
| 4 | Would real-world combat experience with FPV systems from Ukraine be considered a positive discriminator in evaluating instructor qualifications? | Instructor experience/background will be evaluated based on the offeror's abilitiy to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 11/18/25 |
| 5 | Are there any additional documentation requirements for foreign national subcontractor personnel beyond standard work authorizations? | There is no request for additional documentation. | 11/18/25 |
| 6 | Considering the Navy Office for the solicitation, are there any geographic preferences or restrictions for the training facility location? | Contractor's facility and location will be evaluated based on the offeror's abilitiy to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 11/18/25 |
| 7 | Where is the performance location of the above solicitation? | See PWS, section 14. | 11/18/25 |
| 8 | Should each student retain the two (2) FPV drones built during the Course of Instruction (COI), or are the FPV systems considered Government property after training? | Equipment issued will be taken home with the student, then turned into student's command to be retained as government owned property. | 11/20/25 |
| 9 | Does NSW require any specific FPV components (e.g., HDZero, DJI, ELRS, specific stacks or motors), or are all commercial components acceptable? | Refrain from acquiring anything that is proprietary, namely Chinese digital video tranmission systems. | 11/20/25 |
| 10 | Are any FPV vendors or component types prohibited for this training (e.g., Chinese-made flight controllers, video transmitters, certain RF systems)? | See RFI Response #1 above. | 11/20/25 |
| 11 | Is there an approved or preferred parts list NSW recommends to ensure alignment with operational fleet usage? | See RFI Response #1 above. | 11/20/25 |
| 12 | Does NSW require minimum flight performance characteristics for the training aircraft (e.g., minimum flight time, thrust-to-weight ratio, digital video range, payload capability)? | Baseline course and equipment. No. | 11/20/25 |
| 13 | Are there specific operational mission profiles (e.g., maritime, confined space, ISR penetration, indoor breaching support) that the COI aircraft must be optimized for? | Internal clearance, BVLOS, containment, vehicle interdiction, maritime operations like MIO | 12/9/25 |
| 14 | May the contractor adjust the hourly breakdown (35 hrs academics / 5 hrs build / 40 hrs flight) while still meeting the total 80 hours, or must hours remain fixed as written? | Offeror's may propose any solution(s) to be evaluated. | 11/20/25 |
| 15 | Are night flight operations desired, optional, or prohibited? | Desired. Show the students their limitations for all environments. | 11/20/25 |
| 16 | Does NSW expect students to achieve a defined proficiency level or certification standard upon completion of the CULEX? | No. Expectation is to meet training requirements outlined in PWS. | |
| 17 | May the contractor expand simulator hours beyond 4 hours if NSW determines it would enhance safety or early-stage learning? | Yes, but 90% of the 40 hours referenced in PWS (36 hours) must be accomplished with vehicle. Extra sim time to increase proficiency is authorized but cannot count towards required hours of actual aircraft flight time. | 12/9/25 |
| 18 | Is there a minimum required size or type of indoor flight area for controlled flight training? | No. However, for internal clearance training, area size should be relevant to real-world confined spaces. (i.e. small passageways or hatches). | 12/9/25 |
| 19 | Are there minimum requirements for the outdoor flight environment (acreage, airspace classification, proximity to structures)? | Surface to 400' (more is ideal but not required). Challenging flight environments are ideal and should be provided by vendor (i.e. obstructions like buildings, trees, and other objects to practice collision avoidance and train to interference with link). | 11/20/25 |
| 20 | Are maritime or over-water flight events permitted during training? | Yes, but not required. | 11/20/25 |
| 21 | PWS states the NSW-supported Team will provide an RSO/ROIC. Does the contractor need to supply an additional certified flight safety instructor or is NSW’s RSO/ROIC sufficient? | No. | 12/9/25 |
| 22 | Is the contractor expected to provide FAA Part 107–certified instructors, or is Part 107 optional for this military training? | Part 107 should be a hard requirement if training is being conducted in non-COA/MOA airspaces. | 11/20/25 |
| 23 | For emergency medical support, what level of EMS availability is required (on-site EMT, EMS within a specified response time, CPR-qualified staff, etc.)? | Vendor must have med plan to include plan for life, limb, or eye site, and MEDEVAC options (helo, ambo, etc.). Proximitiy to military facility is a plus. | 11/20/25 |
| 24 | Will all students arrive with prior sUAS or FPV experience, or should training assume a true novice starting point? | Vendor should assume a true novice and build the syllabus accordingly. | 11/20/25 |
| 25 | Are students expected to hold FAA Part 107 certification before arriving? | Yes. | |
| 26 | Should the COI include instruction on mission planning tools, or is the curriculum limited strictly to FPV operations and build? | For a basic COI, limt to basics only (i.e. build and fly fundamentals). | 11/20/25 |
| 27 | What is the projected target month for the first class under the Base Year? | Period of Performance is to start on 15 January 2026, contractor will be provided 30 days of notice before class is required. | 11/20/25 |
| 28 | Will NSW coordinate and fund all student travel and lodging, or should contractor proposals include optional lodging/dining availability? | Travel is not part of the contractor quote, all travel costs will be completed separately from this RFQ. Lodging/dining availability, as provided, will be evaluated based on the offeror's abilitiy to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 11/20/25 |
| 29 | What is the expected timeline for funds to become available based on NSW’s internal planning? | Funding will be available prior to award. | 11/20/25 |
| 30 | Does NSW anticipate any potential delays to the 15 January 2026 period of performance start due to funding constraints? | Funding will be available prior to award. | 11/20/25 |
| 31 | Should per-CLIN pricing assume replacement of FPV drones or components damaged during student training? | Under a firm-fixed-price (FFP) contract, the contractor is responsible for providing all equipment necessary to perform the contract requirements. The contractor should consider reasonable damage/replacement anticipated during training to meet the PWS requirements. | 11/20/25 |
| 32 | Are all consumables—including batteries, chargers, props, frames, motors, goggles, controllers—to be priced into each CLIN? | All costs associated with each class can be consolidated into the Unit Price section and will be multiplied by 2, the number of classes per year, for a total CLIN amount. | |
| 33 | Should pricing assume full replacement kits for each student for every class iteration (Base + Option Years)? | Yes. | 11/20/25 |
| 34 | Will NSW accept commercial FPV instruction, FPV racing team support, or non-DoD sUAS programs as relevant past performance? | Instructor experience/background will be evaluated based on the offeror's abilitiy to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 11/20/25 |
| 35 | May subcontractor past performance be included in the 2-page past performance submission? | Past performance is required of the Prime offeror. | 11/20/25 |
| 36 | Must SDVOSB certification be active in SBA’s portal at the time of quote submission, or only by the time of award? | Certification must be active at time of quote closing. | 11/20/25 |
| 37 | Does NSW consider any training materials or student data to qualify as Covered Defense Information (CDI/CUI) requiring a NIST SP 800-171 assessment score submission in SPRS? | DFARS Clause 252.204-7019 and 252.204-7020 apply to this acquisition and will be incorporated into any resultant contract. Application of clauses will be discussed during post-award conference. | 11/20/25 |
| 38 | Will NSW provide any digital Government Furnished Information that would impose DFARS 7012 data-protection obligations on the contractor? | DFARS Clause 252.204-7012 (DEV) applies to this acquisition and will be incorporated into any resultant contract. Application of clause will be discussed during post-award conference. | 11/20/25 |
| 39 | The RFQ states this requirement is a 100% SDVOSB set-aside. Can a non-SDVOSB Small Business submit a quote, or is SDVOSB certification an absolute requirement for eligibility? | Only certified SDVOSB are eligible for award. | 11/20/25 |
| 40 | The RFQ references NAICS 611699. Must an offeror's SAM profile include this specific NAICS code, or will related/adjacent NAICS codes still be considered compliant e.g. NAICS 611519? | See RFQ, FAR Clause 52.212-3(b)(2) | 11/20/25 |
| 41 | Is payload integration, payload mounting, or payload employment (e.g., drop mechanisms, sensors, emitters) expected to be part of the COI? | No but is ideal to explain flight controllers for in-depth for future payload integration. | 11/20/25 |
| 42 | If an aircraft is lost, damaged, or rendered unflyable during training, does the Government expect the contractor to replace it at no additional cost? | Under a firm-fixed-price (FFP) contract, the contractor is responsible for providing all equipment necessary to perform the contract requirements. The contractor should consider reasonable damage/replacement anticipated during training to meet the PWS requirements. | 11/20/25 |
| 43 | Should our quote include additional spare drones/parts to account for expected breakage? (In addition to the second system) | Under a firm-fixed-price (FFP) contract, the contractor is responsible for providing all equipment necessary to perform the contract requirements. The contractor should consider reasonable damage/replacement anticipated during training to meet the PWS requirements. | 11/20/25 |
| 44 | Should the "fundamentals" block be generic (covering industry-standard FPV components and architectures), or should it be tailored to specific sourcing requirements or to the customer's preferred systems? | Generic. | 11/20/25 |
| 45 | What level of compliance is required for the aircraft used in training? |
• NDAA-compliant
• Blue UAS / DIU "Cleared List"
| • No compliance requirement beyond safety | See RFI Response #1 above. | 11/20/25 | |||
| 46 | Will a list of prohibited components be provided? | See RFI Response #1 above. | 11/20/25 | ||
| 47 | RFQ instructions (paragraph 5 (iii)) ask offerors to complete SOFARS 5652.204-9004, Foreign Persons. However, the RFQ’s provisions and clauses do not include 9004. | Amendment will be forthcoming to add. | 11/20/25 | ||
| 48 | Class size: “Up to six (6) personnel”—what is the minimum class size? Will the Government pay a fixed price per course regardless of actual attendance? | Yes. The unit pricing request is per class, not per student. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 49 | Rescheduling/cancellation: What are the terms for Government-initiated postponement/cancellation (e.g., notice days, recoverable costs)? | Two classes per year with 30 days notice of each class date as stated in the PWS. Post award discussion as it relates to postponemet or cancellations can be communicated in a post award conference. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 50 | Curriculum approvals: Is Government pre-approval of lesson plans, syllabi, and CULEX scenarios required prior to delivery? | See PWS 4.3.1.1 | 12/9/25 | ||
| 51 | Standards/reference models: Any mandated doctrine or NATO/DoD UAS training standards the COI must align with. | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 52 | Aircraft classes: Focus is on 5” FPV sUAS. Any requirement to cover sub-250g platforms, cinewhoops, long-range, fixed-wing, or VTOL | Tiny-whoop/sub-250G should be a part of early flying in the class. Classroom/sim/tinywhoop move into flying the larger 5', 7', 10' platforms. Better prepares the students for what the sim lacks in realism. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 53 | Networking scope: “Networking” of FPV drones—clarify whether this refers to digital video systems, RC link setup, telemetry/MAVLink networking, mesh video (e.g., Walksnail/DJI/Caddx), or ground station networking. | All elements related to C2/Video feed. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 54 | GNSS/Non-GNSS: Should the curriculum include GPS/compass integration, return-to-home, and failsafe’s, or strictly acro/LOS? | Acro/LOS for the introduction COI. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 55 | Frequency bands/links: Any required coverage of specific RF systems (e.g., 2.4/5.8 GHz digital, 915/868 MHz control/telemetry) or authorized bands for training? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 56 | Mission skills: Any scenario-based tasks to emphasize (precision flight, confined spaces, night/low-light, payload carriage, FPV navigation, team integration)? | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 57 | CULEX requirements: Any mandatory evaluation rubric, constraints, environment (indoor/outdoor, urban/rural), or objectives to demonstrate? | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 58 | Student piloting kit makeup: Please define required contents (radio system, goggles, batteries/chargers, tools, spare props/frames, soldering kit, firmware programmers, antennas). | All things listed, additionally pelican carrying case with organizer. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 59 | Drone build specifics: For the 2× 5” FPV sUAS per student—specify required components or performance targets (frame size, motor KV, ESC rating, flight controller type, VTX/VRX system, camera type, prop size, battery chemistry/capacity). | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 60 | Ownership: Do the Government/students retain ownership of all kits, tools, built aircraft, and consumables post-course? | Yes. Students will take materials with them for turn-in to parent command to be kept as Government owned property. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 61 | Battery specifics: Chemistry (LiPo vs Li-Ion), capacity count per student, and charging infrastructure requirements. Any max Wh limits for facility insurance? | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 62 | Pre-requisite: Is Part 107 knowledge or certification required for students? | See RFI #25 above. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 63 | Staff-to-student ratio: For classroom, build lab, and flight—what ratios are acceptable? | 5:01 | 12/9/25 | ||
| 64 | Instructor qualifications: Minimum experience hours, certifications (Part 107, HAM/RF, electronics/soldering), background with Betaflight/Ardupilot, and prior military/LE training experience requirements? | See RFI Response #3 above. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 65 | Does the Government have specific requirements that must be met for the CULEX? Can the Government provide minimal requirements and/or enhancement recommendations? Is there required mission sets for the CULEX that must be completed? | Internal clearance, vehicle interdicton, strike static and moving target. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 66 | What are the indoor flying requirements? | Check for access to structure, internal clearance, and get drone back to operator. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 67 | Does the Government have a specific simulation system that is required? | Velocidrone, Orqa Defense Simulator are preferred. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 68 | Does the Government have a specific requirement for the 5” FPV sUAS? If so, can the Government provide make/model? | See RFI Response #1 above. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 69 | Can the Government extend the submission date to accommodate response to questions? | Extension will be provided. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 70 | The PWS does not reference the requirement for the Contractor to provide lodging, dining accommodations, or range facilities. Only a classroom facility with restrooms, internet access, and suitable indoor/outdoor training areas is specified. Can the Government confirm that lodging, dining, and range accommodations are not required for this effort, and that the response to Factor 1 should describe only the facilities necessary to meet the PWS requirements? | They are required. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 71 | The PWS references requirements for live fire range assessments (COMNAVSPECWARCOMINST 3591.1D). However, this FPV training effort does not involve live fire activities and is conducted at the contractor’s facility. Can the Government confirm that live-fire or CQC range assessments are not applicable to this requirement, and that the Contractor is not required to provide access to any live-fire or CQC ranges? | Confirmed. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 72 | PWS Section 15: Identical POP dates for Base/Options (all 15 Jan 2026–14 Jan 2027). Confirm sequential (Base 2026, OY1 2027, OY2 2028)? | PWS has been updated. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 73 | Student kits (2x 5" FPV sUAS): Accept full NDAA/TAA (US/EU FC/ESCs like Rotor Riot Brave F7) at <15% cost premium for mil durability? | NDAA/TAA/Country of origin certified to the max extent possible. Government is will to entertain suggestions from vendor. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 74 | Per RFI #1 ("max extent practicable" for NDAA): For Betaflight-specific training (PWS 4.2.2), allowable to use Chinese-manufactured FCs/ESCs (e.g., non-telemetry hobby-grade) if vetted for no backdoors, or must all critical electronics be US/EU-sourced? | NDAA/TAA/Country of origin certified to the max extent possible. Government is will to entertain suggestions from vendor. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 75 | If the students are taking the systems, should we include entire systems such as battery chargers and goggles or just the aircraft and controller or some other subsection? | Full kits. Ex. 2x 5'/7' drones, charger, goggles, controller, 8x batteries (LiOn/Lipo), pelican transport case, | 12/9/25 | ||
| 76 | Is the contractor to provide transportation (daily to and from training), food and lodging as part of the bid? | Yes. Contractor's facility and location will be evaluated based on the offeror's ability to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 77 | Will the students be FAA Part 107 qualified when they arrive? | Yes | 12/9/25 | ||
| 78 | Given question and answer timeframe and the Thanksgiving holiday, we would request an extension of 1 week. | Extension will be provided. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 79 | The PWS mentions close quarters combat (CQC) safeties but there are no CQC training requirements in the schedule. Does the government wish to conduct CQC FPV training during this training event? | Don’t think of this as TRUE CQC, rather, introducing students to indoor flying in restricted spaces. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 80 | The PWS mentions (2) 5" FPVs and a pilot kit. Is this (2) FPV drones per student, or just 2 for the class? | 2x per student. If student losses or breaks drone during training, contractor should be able to replace to ensure they are leaving with the correct equipment. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 81 | Does the government intend to keep the FPV drones that are built for the course? Or will these be returned to the vendor? | Government keeps. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 82 | Please confirm that the Government intends the 10-day COI to equal the full 80 hours of instruction outlined in PWS 4.2, with no additional days or hours required. | Yes. The unit pricing request is per class, not per student. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 83 | Does the Government require access to any specific range types or controlled environments beyond standard indoor/outdoor flight areas as defined in PWS 4.2.3? | Ideally vendor will be able to introduce students to mulitple operating environments. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 84 | Additionally, are there minimum size or obstacle requirements for indoor flight environments? | Confined spaces to challenge student are ideal. Hallways, rooms, crawl spaces, etc. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 85 | Please confirm whether the contractor must provide lodging and dining facilities, or whether these are optional elements to be described for informational purposes only. | Yes. Contractor's facility and location will be evaluated based on the offeror's ability to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 86 | What specific evaluation criteria, scenario elements, or mission profiles does the Government expect for the CULEX? | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. Per the PWS, vendor should write CULEX scenarios based on tasks outlined in PWS. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 87 | Does the Government have any preferred or prohibited manufacturers, flight controllers, motors, or VTX systems? | Anything originating from a covered country. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 88 | Is digital HD transmission (e.g., HDZero, DJI) acceptable or preferred? | There are currently no NDAA/TAA compliant HD systems. Everything should be analog. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 89 | What is the Government’s definition of “readily available” maintenance? | Maintenance that is able to be performed immediately. Requires availability of knowledgeable individual, facilities to complete maintenance action, and necessary tools to satisfy. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 90 | Must maintenance be performed on-site by a dedicated maintenance technician, or is instructor-level maintenance acceptable? | The course is teaching maintenance basics. The student should be performing repairs with instructor oversight. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 91 | Does the Government require a minimum parts list or quantity per student for spare components (propellers, arms, ESCs, motors, batteries, antennas, goggles parts, etc.)? | Spare props and motors should be minimum requirement. Regarding quantity: This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 92 | For contractor-owned training facilities (indoor/outdoor areas), does the Government intend to perform NSW RSO assessments prior to first use? | Yes. Vendor should provide overview of facilities (pictures, descriptions) to better assess facility feasibility. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 93 | The solicitation is issued with 52.232-18, unfunded (RFQ page 1). Does the Government anticipate funding prior to 15 January 2026 (start of PoP), and will award be made contingent on funds availability? | Unknown. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 94 | PWS states “Contractor travel is not authorized” (PWS 7.1). Please confirm that all training, including CULEX, must occur at the contractor’s facility with no off-site travel authorized. | Confirmed. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 95 | PWS requires internet, AC, restrooms, and lounge (PWS 4.4.1.1). Is there a minimum student-to-instructor ratio or classroom square footage requirement? | 5:1 student:instructor. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 96 | Is the intent that the FPV systems will be taken by the personnel when they leave training or do the platforms remain with the company (contractor)? | Students will take FPVs with the upon course completion to be turned-in to parent command and kept as Government owned property. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 97 | If the students are taking the systems (assume each student takes the system they built), should the contractor include entire systems such as battery chargers and goggles or just the aircraft and controller or some other subsection? | Yes. The unit pricing request is per class, not per student. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 98 | Is the contractor to provide transportation (daily to and from training), food and lodging as part of the bid? | Yes. Contractor's facility and location will be evaluated based on the offeror's ability to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 99 | Will the students be FAA Part 107 qualified when they arrive? | Yes. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 100 | Section 9.6 concerns an RSO and range assesment for "live fire ranges". Is there a requirment for live fire operations with this RFQ? If so, what type of live fire is expected? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 101 | Section 4.2.3.4 requires a CULEX, can the Governement define what specifically they want or is requried for the CULEX? | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. Per the PWS, vendor should write CULEX scenarios based on tasks outlined in PWS. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 102 | Will these flights be conducted under Title 49 of the United States Code (49 U.S.C.) §§ 40102(a)(41) and 40125 “public aircraft”? This question is necessary to know if we will be protected under this contract for damages or injuries related to the flights and if the Government flight risk clause protects BrS from potential litigation. | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 103 | If designated a public aircraft will a government flight risk clause be included in the contract? This question is necessary to know if we will be protected under this contract for damages or injuries related to the flights and if the Government flight risk clause protects BrS from potential litigation. | N/A | 12/9/25 | ||
| 104 | In complying with the standard of a pilot producing schoolhouse approved by the FAA, if possible, is it possible to request a breakdown what is necessarily required or good to have from as listed in USSOCOM NSWC T&C? We note that these cited parts apply to FAA-certified manned aviation training programs and pilot school operations, which require extensive FAA approval processes and ongoing regulatory compliance. | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 105 | Could the Government please confirm whether full compliance with 14 CFR Parts 14, 61, 91, and 141 is strictly required for this FPV course, or whether the intent is for the Contractor to follow general aviation and sUAS safety best practices that are appropriate for this type of training? | Not required. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 106 | Will a Government Flight Representative be assigned to ensure program compliance? | Yes. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 107 | Will a checklist for compliance be provided prior to an inspection or surveillance evaluation? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 108 | Is there any benefit or evaluative consideration for a VOSB to submit a quote in response to this RFQ, considering our prior SSN participation and as an eligible small business concern? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 109 | Will quotes from VOSBs (not SDVOSBs) be considered for award or as part of the evaluation process in accordance with applicable FAR and SOFARS provision? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 110 | Are there any circumstances where SOCOM’s market research or acquisition planning may allow offers from VOSB SBCs to be evaluated, either as a matter of best interest or otherwise, relative to the SDVOSB set-aside under current statutory and regulatory authority? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 111 | Will the government permit offerors to include a one-page cover letter to address the required administrative information? | Yes. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 112 | Are the 2 pages for Past Performance in addition to the 10 page limit for the Technical Capability Response? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 113 | Referenced Table states the “PWS Ref” for Number 0001 Course Schedule/Training Plan is 4.2.4.1. Should referenced clause be 4.3.1.1 | PWS has been updated. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 114 | Referenced Table states the “PWS Ref” for Number 0002 Certificate of Completion is 4.2.4.4 | PWS has been updated. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 115 | Can you clarify the desired endstate for the UAS operator? For Example, Develop expert level FPV skills capable of circumnavigating confined spaces in order to assess an objective prior to Breech. UAS operators are able to field fabricate via 3D printing a brand agnostic NDAA compliant 5" FPV drone. | Over 10 days of classroom/live flights, students should be BASCIALLY qualified to fly 5" FPV. Basics first, no advanced autopilots, no integration of payloads. The student should leave with gears turning in their head. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 116 | Can you clarify the personnel to be trained, to include any current familiarity flying drones (ie legacy models) , background in electronics or avionics, any other relevant training that would aid in a starting point for Fabrication and FPV training? Will these be actual drone pilots (support personnel) learning a new skill set, or Seals learning to employ FPV as a team internal tactical advantage. | UAS experience will vary. Students attending COI will have completed an undetermined amount of sim time prior to attending. Additionally, expect some students to arrive with a better FPV foundation as well. For syllabus writing purposes, assume students are true novices. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 117 | For the “student piloting kit,” is the government expecting each student to receive and keep an individual radio transmitter, FPV goggles, batteries (quantity?), charger(s), and tools, or may some items (chargers, soldering stations) be provided as shared class sets while still meeting the intent? | Each workstation should be identical for each student. No one should be sharing any major hard requirement supplies such as tools, soldering irons, laptops, etc | 12/9/25 | ||
| 118 | Can the contractor utilize either digital HD systems (DJI O3, Avatar HD, Walksnail) or analog-only VTX required for the requirement? | Analog only. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 119 | The 40 hours of supervised flight instruction may include indoor and outdoor flight with a maximum of 4 hours of simulation. Is there a Government-preferred ratio of indoor vs. outdoor live-flight hours (50/50, 70/30), or is contractor discretion acceptable as long as the total live-flight time meets 36 hours? Is the 40 hour total (simulator and live flight training) a minimum requirement? Does the contractor have discretion to graduate students early based on class progression? If a student does not progress and needs additional time to train, will the Government authorize more flight hours? If so, will the contractor be expected to submit an REA to the Government? | Minimum of 10 hours of indoor and 20 hours of outdoor flight time. 40 hour total is minimum. All students will complete the full syllabus regardless of proficiency. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 120 | Does the Government expect the training to be conducted in any weather environment? If not, is there a required range of conditions that the training must occur in? If the weather is not suitable for flying, will the Government extend the course to allow for the full flight training? | Vendor should be able to shift training to indoor enviroments on the case of inclimate weather outdoors. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 121 | Is their a maximum duty day for the students? | Syllabus writing should plan for 8-hour work days. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 122 | Section 9.2 requires compliance with 14 CFR Parts 14, 61, 91, and 141. However, the scope of this PWS is for Group 1 sUAS (FPV) training. 14 CFR Part 141 (Pilot Schools) and Part 61 (Certification: Pilots) are regulations exclusive to manned aviation; the FAA does not certify sUAS/Drone schools under Part 141, nor does it certify Remote Pilots under Part 61. Furthermore, Can the Government confirm that Section 9.2 should be amended to require compliance with 14 CFR Part 107 (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems), which is the governing regulation for the commercial operation of the FPV drones described in Section 4.1? | Confirmed. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 123 | Section 9.6.1. states "The assigned RSO will ensure that a range assessment is performed for all non-DoD LIVE FIRE RANGES IAW COMNAVSPECWARCOMINST 3591.1D prior to first-time use." However, nothing in Section 4.0 of the PWS seems to require the use of FPV training under LIVE-FIRE conditions in the sense of either delivering ordinance or being subjected to fire. QUESTION: does the Government expect or want the students to be trained int he delivery of ordinance as well as be subjected to fire while conducting the training? If so, an the Government detail what ordinance is required to be delivered, what is the expected proficiency level of the students etc.? | No requirement to train with live ordinance. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 124 | The PWS requires students to build 2 × 5" FPV sUAS per student. Is the government prescribing a specific make/model/frame (a particular military-qualified platform), or is the contractor free to propose and use its own proven 5-inch FPV design/platform provided it fully meets or exceeds all performance, safety, and training objectives in the PWS? Does the Government require that the Students keep the FPV's they train on? | Vendor should propose their suggested components list/build kits. Intent is for students to keep individual student kits. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 125 | The PWS requires “a student piloting kit and the required components to build 2x 5” FPV sUAS.” Is the 5-inch size a strict requirement, or would the government accept a larger 7' configuration that is NDAA-compliant and currently being used by other US military forces? | 5 or 7 inch are acceptable. Ideally at least (1) 5'. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 126 | Will the six students typically arrive with zero FPV experience, or should we expect some prior RC/FPV exposure that would allow acceleration of early simulator/indoor blocks? Will they have had any UAS experience? Do they have their FAA Part 107 certification? | UAS experience will vary. Students attending COI will have completed an undetermined amount of sim time prior to attending. Additionally, expect some students to arrive with a better FPV foundation as well. For planning purposes, assume students are true novice with FPV operations. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 127 | Please clarify: is the 4-hour simulator cap a hard maximum across the entire course, or may we use up to 4 hours per student if some students require remediation while others progress to live flight earlier? | Can do more sim hours, but cannot count towards 36 hour live-flight requirement. Students should be flying significantly more live flights compared to sim. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 128 | Please clarify if students are limited to a 5-day work week or can work weekends as well as a standard or as required in case of weather etc.? | Can work weekends as a contingency to account for unforeseen delays. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 129 | Based on experience with FPV drone training as well as lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in the Ukrainian, FPV students often damage or crash one or more FPVs during flight training. While, of course, we use simulators and the ground school to help mitigate this, student pilots still experience expected drone damage / crashes as they begin non-simulated flight training. Is a mishap report required for all drone damage/crashes during non-simulated flight training? | Mishap reports should be based on the incident severity. Use your best judgement. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 130 | Is the contractor expected to provide transportation, lodging and meals as part of the training? Can the contractor offer a bundled service that includes non-airfare transportation, lodging and some meals? Will a bundled service be viewed positively by the Government? | Contractor's facility and location will be evaluated based on the offeror's ability to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. |
| Contractors may provide options or alternative quotes. | 12/9/25 | ||||
| 131 | Does the Government require the contractor’s training facility to be located within a specific geographic region, or is any U.S.-based facility acceptable? | U.S. based facility. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 132 | Is the Government willing to review or approve the contractor’s proposed training facility in advance, and if so, what criteria or documentation would be required? | Vendor should provide overview of facilities (pictures, descriptions) to better assess facility feasibility. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 133 | Are there any NSW- or SOCOM-specific range safety or flight restrictions expected for indoor or outdoor FPV operations beyond the FAA references already listed? | No. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 134 | Does the Government require on-site EMS, or is proximity to local emergency response sufficient? | Vendor should have sufficient EAP plans and be able to articulate those to the government for concurrence or feedback. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 135 | Does the Government have a preferred or required ratio of indoor to outdoor flight hours? | More outdoor flying. Vendor should not spend too much time doing indoor based flying. Indoor flying should also happen midway through the course to show students the required dexterity indoor flying requires. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 136 | Does the Government have expectations or constraints regarding the design, environment, or mission profile of the final CULEX? | This is incumbent on the offeror to propose a viable solution to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. Per the PWS, vendor should write CULEX scenarios based on tasks outlined in PWS. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 137 | Does the Government have a preference for Betaflight versus Ardupilot, or other similar platforms? | Betaflight only. This is an intro COI. Nothing beyond the "basic" scope should be taught. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 138 | Does the Government require any specific depth or emphasis on theory versus hands-on electronics instruction within the 35 hours of FPV fundamentals? | No, but emphasis should be on "hands-on" instruction. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 139 | Are there any restrictions or preferences regarding the origin, manufacturer, or component brands for the 5” FPV platforms beyond compliance with federal procurement regulations? | NDAA/TAA/Country of origin certified to the max extent possible. Government is will to entertain suggestions from vendor. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 140 | PWS section 8.2 states that “Contractor personnel do not require a security clearance.” Can the Government confirm whether instructors who currently hold security clearances are acceptable to propose, and whether there is any preference for cleared versus uncleared instructors for coordination or debrief purposes? | No preference. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 141 | Does the Government require lodging and dining to be physically on site, or is providing nearby commercial options sufficient? | Contractor's facility and location will be evaluated based on the offeror's ability to meet or exceed the requirements of the PWS to make a best value (Tradeoff) award decision. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 142 | Does the Government require instructors to hold FAA Part 107 certification, or is relevant operational FPV/sUAS experience sufficient? | Counter-question. Do you as a business require your instructors to maintain a Part 107 license? | 12/9/25 | ||
| 143 | Will NSW provide any government-furnished evaluation criteria or performance standards for student qualification? | Yes. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 144 | Should the two annual training iterations follow a predictable seasonal schedule, or will scheduling occur solely on a 30-day coordination timeline as stated in the PWS? | As stated in the PWS. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 145 | Will the government specify if the offeror should submit a 10 page technical along with a 2 page past peformance voulme (12 pages total), or if we should submikt a 8 page technical with a 2 page past performace volume (10 pages total); will the government disclose how it will evaluate past performance in respect to other technical criteria. If the offeror intends to use a subcotractor, can their PP be referenced in the proposal? | 10 pages total. Only the Past performance of the Prime (offeror) will be evaluated. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 146 | Does the price volume have a page or file type limit; can the price volume include a pricing sheet and price narrative | No limit. Price narrative is acceptable. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 147 | Does the government have an estimated total contract value for this effort? | Not publicly available information. | 12/9/25 | ||
| 148 | What is the intent behind the indoor range for flying the FPVs, and can you provide specific requirements like flying in a denied area, under cover, etc. | Intent is to introduce more difficult flying environments for students to build on their skill foundation. Indoor flying could also be a mission set that trained operators are expected to fly in. | 12/9/25 |
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .