Bird Detection Radar System

The Department of the Air Force United States Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa is seeking to procure an upgraded bird detection radar system for RAF Lakenheath through the 48th Fighter Wing. The requirement involves upgrading the existing Aircraft Bird Strike Avoidance Radar system, specifically the current Merlin System by Detect Inc, to enhance avian detection capabilities on and around the flightline while adding the capability to detect and track non-bird flight patterns including drones, multi-copters, and hobby-sized aircraft and gliders. The upgrade must include Bird & Drone Detection Radars with AI drone target classification, DroneWatcher C2 data system, two radar-controlled electro-optic/infrared camera systems with dedicated video analytics server, and a DroneWatcher RF omni-directional UAS scanner integrated with the C2 system. Companies must demonstrate their capability to provide upgrades with specific hardware and software solutions that are compatible with the existing Merlin system, or provide alternative quotes for entirely new systems if upgrades are not feasible. This sources sought notice was posted on August 7, 2025, with responses due by August 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM BST, and serves as market research only and will not result in contract awards.

This opportunity does not utilize any set-aside designations and is open to all qualified contractors under NAICS code 334511 for radar systems and equipment manufacturing. Detect Inc appears to be the current contractor providing the existing Merlin System that requires upgrading. The government will provide the equipment foundation/pad, utilities including power, internet, and fiber optics, as well as site access, while the contractor must install all equipment at the existing radar site or tower cab and provide all ancillary hardware. Companies must respond electronically with company brochures, NCAGE/UEI information, SAM.gov registration status, and submissions on company letterhead to the primary point of contact, 2d Lt Hunter Copp. The contractor will be responsible for setting up and calibrating the entire system and software suite as part of the installation requirements. No specific budget ranges or award values have been disclosed in this pre-solicitation notice.