technical and instructional services for the US Naval Academy ARES Squadron

The Department of the Navy Naval Supply Systems Command is soliciting technical and instructional services for the U.S. Naval Academy's Adaptive Rapid Engagement Squadron (ARES) through a full and open competition under Request for Quotation N0018926QL029. The Navy seeks a contractor to provide specialized instruction, mentorship, and technical services focused on integrating emerging technologies, drone operations, counter-UAS capabilities, and small unit tactics into midshipman development. Key requirements include delivering 30 hours per week of hands-on instruction over 15 weeks during the base period, leading counter-UAS program initiatives, advising Capstone projects, conducting field training scenarios, supporting Saturday morning training sessions, and accompanying midshipmen on authorized domestic and overseas travel with full supervisory responsibility. The contractor must demonstrate unmatched operational expertise in tactical drone operations informed by current conflict insights, possess proficiency in building and flying drones, and be capable of leading hands-on technical instruction rather than merely supervising. Award will be made to the responsible quoter offering the best value based on technical acceptability and price, with the Government reserving the right to award to other than the lowest priced vendor, prioritizing ready-to-go contractors capable of supporting the remainder of the academic year and summer training. Quotations must be submitted via email to Megan Evans at megan.m.evans18.civ@us.navy.mil by March 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM EST, with industry questions having been addressed in the most recent amendment issued on March 6, 2026.

This is a Firm-Fixed-Price purchase order with no set-asides, and no incumbent contractor is identified in the solicitation materials. The base contract period runs from March 15, 2026 through June 30, 2026, with three optional line items providing additional funding for special event support (40 hours each for two options) and summer training support (10 hours per week for seven weeks through August 15, 2026). Service Contract Labor Standards apply, with Technical Instructor wage rates of $29.58 per hour plus $12.85 per hour in fringe benefits; specific budgetary caps are not disclosed in the available documentation. Performance will occur at the U.S. Naval Academy, 121 Blake Road, Annapolis, Maryland 21402, and contractor personnel must obtain a Common Access Card (CAC) or DBIDS credential for unescorted base access and must be U.S. citizens with favorable background investigation adjudication. The acquisition is classified under NAICS 611710 (Educational Support Services) with a small business size standard of $24 million, and payment terms are NET 30.