USCG RAS C-UAS RFI 1 July 2025.pdf

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI)

United States Coast Guard

Counter – Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS)

1.0 DESCRIPTION

This notice is a Request for Information (RFI) only. This RFI is issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) for information and planning purposes, pursuant to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 10, Market Research. It does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or a promise to issue an RFP in the future. Participants are advised that the Government will not pay for any information or administrative costs that result from responding to this RFI; all costs associated with responding to this RFI will be at the interested party’s expense. Not responding to this RFI does not preclude participation in any future RFP, if any is issued.

2.0 INTRODUCTION

Protecting our nation’s maritime security – including borders, ports, and waterways – is a core mission of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). This is increasingly challenged by the growing threat from Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), which pose security risks due to their potential payloads and difficulty of detection. The USCG, seeks a holistic approach to implementing C-UAS throughout the service with an immediate focus on rapidly deployable and adaptable Counter-UAS (C-UAS) solutions for fixed, mobile, and temporary deployments to secure critical infrastructure and high-profile events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup (potentially in Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle) and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Effective solutions should include a range of capabilities, particularly the ability to counter UAS swarms through techniques like GPS jamming of GNSS signals, alongside reliable detection, effective mitigation, system integration, and adaptability. Failure to address this threat could disrupt commerce and endanger lives, while successful implementation will strengthen maritime domain awareness and public safety.

3.0 PURPOSE

This RFI seeks to obtain information from industry about the capabilities of C-UAS that are currently available for procurement. The RFI also seeks information on the possibility of acquiring C-UAS as a service (contractor-owned, contractor-operated (COCO)) or through an arrangement with a vendor owned and maintained C-UAS while operated by the government (contractor-owned, government-operated (COGO)). Under each scenario, C-UAS described in responses to the RFI must meet or substantially meet the characteristics described in Attachment A, C-UAS Characteristics and have a Technology Readiness Level of 7 or greater. Please refer to the Government Accountability Office Technology Readiness Assessment Guide of Jan 2020 for level information (https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-20-48g.pdf) .

4.0 MISSION CAPABILITIES

This capability aligns with the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2023-2027 and addresses the following missions and objectives (https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/24_1119_plcy_dhs-strategic-plan-fy23-27.pdf).

Mission 1: Counter Terrorism and Homeland Security Threats

• Objective 1.1 Collect, analyze, and share actionable intelligence

• Objective 1.2 Detect and disrupt threats https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-20-48g.pdf https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2024-11/24_1119_plcy_dhs-strategic-plan-fy23-27.pdf

• Objective 1.3 Protect designated leadership, events, and soft targets

• Objective 1.4 Counter weapons of mass destruction and emerging threats

Mission 2: Secure and Manage Our Borders

• Objective 2.1 Secure and Manage Air, Land, and Maritime Borders

Mission 4: Secure Cyberspace and Critical Infrastructure

• Objective 4.2 Strengthen the Security and Resilience of Critical Infrastructure

In order to meet these mission objectives in accordance with current law (https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:6%20section:124n%20edition:prelim), the C-UAS must have the following capabilities to engage unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft, without prior consent, including by means of intercept or other access of a wire communication, an oral communication, or an electronic communication used to control the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft:

Figure 1: Core Mission Capabilities

• Detect: The ability to discover the presence of an unmanned airborne object within a defined reaction time and within a defined volume of airspace during all weather, day/night, 24x7x365.

• Identify: The ability to positively ascertain a detected Target of Interest (TOI) with a unique identifier and aircraft characteristics, to determine the level of threat, risk, and/or intent of a detected

TOI.

• Monitor: The ability to receive updated and continuous flight information, intelligence, and other advance and historical information of a TOI.

• Track: The ability to follow the progress or movements of a TOI continuously from detection through response for total airspace situational awareness.

• Warn: The ability to warn the operator of the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft, including by passive or active, and direct or indirect physical, electronic, radio, and electromagnetic means.

• Disrupt: The ability to disrupt control of the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft, without prior consent, including by disabling the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft by intercepting, interfering, or causing interference with wire, oral, electronic, or radio communications used to control the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft.

• Seize: The ability to seize or exercise control of the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft or otherwise confiscate the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft and use reasonable force, if necessary, to disable, damage, or destroy the unmanned aircraft system or unmanned aircraft.

https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=(title:6%20section:124n%20edition:prelim

5.0 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS AND DEPLOYMENT

Operations:

The Coast Guard envisions a future state where C-UAS will be responsible for countering the threat of UASs. Each C-UAS will be responsible for monitoring its area of coverage. The number of C-UAS deployed across locations will vary based on geography, the specific C-UAS system’s capability, availability of equipment and trained operators, and operational need. When deployed, the system will provide the C-UAS operator with information regarding detection, identification, monitoring, tracking, and mitigation of UAS threats. These UASs typically consist of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), a ground-based controller, and a system of communication between the two. The UAVs can be of varying sizes and weights, as well as varying configurations such as fixed-wing, vertical takeoff and landing, or hybrid. In addition, the sensor and payload capabilities vary between UAVs, as well as the data collection and transmission capabilities.

One example of an operational scenario includes a fixed C-UAS deployed to an operating area of interest.

• Upon detecting UAV threats, the system logs the information and notifies the operator of a threat (either locally on the system interface, or remotely via connection to an information network).

• Next, the system begins to track the UAV (determines UAV and ground operator control location and flight path) and attempts to classify and identify UAV in terms of known characteristics (e.g., model, weight, payload, frequency, and launch location).

• In addition, the information collected in real-time will allow operators to take appropriate action given the UAVs and UAV pilot’s known location.

• If deemed necessary and in accordance with 6 USC §124n and USCG policy, the system will enable operators to disrupt or deny further operation of the UAV.

Throughout the scenario, the system data and intelligence are logged to increase awareness of the current and future UAVs threat. C-UAS system data logs are saved, and downloadable for future use for evidentiary or intelligence purposes.

Configurations:

For this RFI, USCG is requesting C-UAS configuration information on systems with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 or greater. Please refer to the Government Accountability Office Technology Readiness Assessment Guide of Jan 2020 for level information. Technology Readiness Level should be assessed independently for each configuration.

The USCG intends to employ C-UAS in a mix of configurations to cover various operational scenarios and needs. All C-UAS systems must be adaptable to emerging UAS threats, incorporate robust cybersecurity measures, and provide clear, actionable information to operators. Any system considered for USCG use will be assessed by the government for cyber security vulnerabilities. While the defined configurations are not yet finalized, the mission is envisioned to include the following employment modes:

• Fixed - System has a permanent installation and cannot be moved unless the vendor or trained government technicians relocate the system. Installation may require extra infrastructure to be installed. Installation may require precise site surveying or measurement of the electromagnetic spectrum that must be repeated if the system is moved to another location.

• Temporary - System can be moved by operators of the system, requiring some non-permanent positioning and stabilization. The System cannot be moved by a single person and is only operable while stationary. Minimal detailed site surveys or environmental measures are needed when moving to a new location.

• On-The-Move - System is part of a moving platform such as a Coast Guard Cutter or boat. The system requires automated detection, classification, and tracking of UAS threats with the potential to integrate into existing combat systems for coordinated responses.

• Portable - System is light and compact enough to be carried at length by a single operator.

For all configurations, the system must be ruggedized so it can be used in the USCG operational environment and sometimes transported for long distances by ground and commercial and military aircraft.

Some configurations may also require aesthetics commensurate with operational employment in public areas.

Minimum Fixed, Temporary, and On-The-Move Capabilities Requested:

• Library-Based Protocol Manipulation Detection/Defeat Systems

• Broad Brand RF Detection/Defeat Systems

• Electro-Optical Visual/Infrared system capable of detecting, tracking, and categorizing all Group

1-3 UAS including FPV and Fiber-Optic UAS

• Air-Search Radar capable of detecting, tracking, and categorizing all Group 1-3 UAS including

FPV and Fiber-Optic UAS while on-the-move

• Additional consideration will be given to systems that provide integration of kinetic, directed energy, and UAS interceptor options for defeat of systems not able to be countered with RF countermeasures.

Portable Detection and Defeat systems:

• (Note: A collection of these capabilities issued to a single operational element will be classified as a “suite”.)

• Potential solutions must be scalable and able to be deployed to temporary fixed-sites, permanent fixed-sites, integrated into trailer-mounted configurations, on-board Coast Guard cutters, and on Coast Guard small boats

• Additional consideration will be made to systems that can be networked to provide common command and control to “suites” of networked capabilities and sensor nodes and can be networked between multiple “suites” for broad area UAS detection, tracking, and defeat.

• Additional consideration will be given to systems that provide integration of kinetic, directed energy, and UAS interceptor options for defeat of systems not able to be countered with RF countermeasures.

Deployment:

USCG personnel require scalable, adaptable, and flexible C-UAS configurations to optimize airspace security across the many operating areas/ranges. To accommodate these operational conditions and constraints, the C-UAS operations concept calls for various configurations to meet intended operational needs for day and night operations. The C-UAS will enable tailored configuration of self-contained, fully functional sensor subsystems suitable for deploying and operating up to 24 hours a day to specific deployment locations, environmental conditions, and ranges.

User Interface:

The equipment should be easily operated by non-experts who have had minimal training. The hardware and software should include operational controls and a user interface that is clearly labeled, intuitive, and easy to learn and use. The user interface should be able to easily generate reports and statistics on UAS detections and C-UAS capabilities used. Finally, the system should be capable of being linked to an information systems network for interoperability and event recording and storage.

Maintenance/Reliability:

The C-UAS should be capable of supporting an operational tempo of continuous 24 hours a day/365 days a year. This requires a system with high reliability and high availability with minimal maintenance downtime. During system power up and upon operator selection, the C-UAS must have the capability to run an automatic pass/fail built-in system test diagnostic. In addition, during operation the system must be able to report mission-critical failures to the operator and, if possible, be able to isolate failures to a Line Repairable/Replaceable Unit to minimize downtime.

Mission-critical failures include any failure condition that prevents the system from performing/enabling detection, identification, classification, and tracking functions. Upon notification of a mission-critical failure, the C-UAS operator may assess the available health and status information, and if possible, apply corrective action such as a visual inspection, reboot, or software update. For some repairs, a field repair kit, consisting of small and lightweight items, may be used to perform field repair of the C-UAS by the operator.

If demonstrating any of the aforementioned requires reference to specific contracts, indicate those contract numbers respective to each capability example described, to include a point of contact for each referenced contract. Should there be teaming or subcontracting arrangements referenced, identification of specific contract numbers will be required for those arrangements as well. If the services demonstrated were performed for a private vendor, please also provide for such requirements a verifying reference.

6.0 PRODUCT DEMONSTRATION:

As a part of this RFI, the Government intends to review RFI responses and may identify vendors with existing systems to participate in a future product demonstration of their systems. This is to provide the Government with an opportunity to gain additional information about the capabilities of available relevant products as demonstrated in an operational environment. If desired, the Government may conduct one-on-one meetings with the vendors upon receipt of their RFI responses.

Vendor demonstrations of products or services shall be rendered at no cost to the Government, and the vendor(s) shall waive any claims against the Government for compensation for this demonstration. For any C-UAS product demonstration, the vendor shall plan to provide all necessary equipment for the product demonstration.

The Government is not bound or obligated in any way to any special consideration to the vendor(s) on future contracts as a result of participation in a demonstration. The vendor(s) shall not refer to the demonstration as implying government acceptance or approval for advertising purposes. The vendor(s) also acknowledges that the Government makes no commitment to buy the products or services involved or gives the vendor(s) special consideration in any future acquisition in which the vendor(s) may submit a proposal.

Not all vendors that respond to this RFI may have an opportunity to participate in a product demonstration.

A government request to participate in a product demonstration will be based on the Government’s need for additional information regarding a vendor’s system in an operational environment, and the availability of government resources. Participation in the product demonstration, however, will have no bearing on a vendor’s ability to respond to any future RFP.

If identified to participate in a product demonstration, USCG will coordinate the demonstration event, including a Vendor Demonstration Agreement via separate correspondence, following RFI response reviews.

7.0 RESPONSE:

All interested parties are invited to complete and submit Attachment A: C-UAS Characteristics Spreadsheet, Attachment B: DD-1494 Application for Equipment Frequency Allocation, and also provide a capabilities statement, which shall not exceed five (5) total pages per C-UAS employment mode (e.g., Fixed, Temporary, On-The-Move, Portable) in no smaller than 12-point Times New Roman font.

The capability statement should demonstrate understanding, capability, approach, qualification, and past experience in meeting the work requirements identified in Attachment A, C-UAS Characteristics. Finally, interested firms should identify challenges and risks associated with meeting the requirements outlined above and how the organization would minimize those risks. The Government will review the submitted documents to determine if the interested firm is capable of satisfying the requirements based on its demonstrated understanding, capability, approach, qualification, and past experience in each of the areas included in Attachment A. Please note that a small business concern may submit a capability statement that includes the expertise of large business partner companies under a teaming arrangement. If a teaming arrangement is contemplated, then the response to this source sought must clearly discuss the areas of the Attachment A that the small business firm intends to perform and the specific areas that the large business teaming partner intends to perform. Please note that at least 50 percent of the cost of contract performance incurred for personnel shall be expended for employees of the concern, and/or shall perform work for at least 50 percent of the cost of manufacturing the supplies, not including the cost of materials. pursuant to the FAR clause at 52.219-14 entitled “Limitations on Subcontracting (MAR 2020)”.

In furnishing the requested information, please include the following as part of the submission:

1. Name of the Organization

2. Address of the Organization

3. Website of the Organization

4. Telephone Number, Address, and Email address for the primary point of contact for Capabilities

Statement

5. CAGE Code and DUNS Number for the Organization

6. Small business standing (i.e., large or small business) under NAICS Code 541330 – Engineering

Services ($5.5 million)

7. If a Small Business, indicate Small Business Type(s) (e.g., Small Business, Woman-Owned Small

Business, Economically Disadvantaged Woman-Owned Small Business, Small Disadvantaged Business, 8(a) Certified, HUBZone Certified, Veteran Owned Small Business, and/or Service- Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business)

8. Manufacturer status (Original Equipment Manufacturer or Reseller)

9. Are there any existing Contracts or Strategic Sourcing Vehicles that can be leveraged

10. A description of your organization’s capability to meet the requirements stated above

11. A summary of your organization’s history relating to similar requirements

12. If interested in one-on-one meetings, state as such and provide POC information to coordinate.

As much as possible, it is preferred that capability statements be nonproprietary. However, capability statements with company-sensitive data and concepts will be accepted, and the Government will respect restricted data markings. Responders are expected to appropriately mark their submissions that contain proprietary information; receipt of classified materials is not anticipated.

All responses and questions shall be submitted electronically, via email, no later than 5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on July 25, 2025, to all the points of contact listed below. Only attach MS Word/Excel compatible files or Adobe Acrobat PDFs in electronic correspondence.

Primary Points of Contact USCG RAS Counter Air Team COMDT-LST-DCS-RAS-Counter-Air@uscg.mil

Attachment A: C-UAS Characteristics Spreadsheet

Attachment B: DD-1494 Application for Equipment Frequency Allocation mailto:COMDT-LST-DCS-RAS-Counter-Air@uscg.mil