Thunderdome 2026: Low-Cost Interceptors for Counter-UAS

Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division and the UX-24 Unmanned Aircraft Test Squadron are soliciting industry information on low-cost interceptors for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS) through a Request for Information due July 17, 2026, supporting Thunderdome 2026, a Naval Innovative Science & Engineering technology demonstration event at Naval Air Warfare Center Webster Outlying Field in St. Inigoes, Maryland, August 17–21, 2026.

Respondents must propose systems meeting baseline requirements: Group 1 sized UAS weighing below 18 pounds, airspeed of at least 85 knots, and production cost under $25,000. Non-kinetic systems are required for field testing, though kinetic integration concepts should be described. Desired capabilities include autonomous or auto-guidance terminal guidance, Battle Damage Assessment, ATAK integration, portable docking or backpack carry, GNSS-denied functionality, and RF jamming resistance. Testing will evaluate performance against fixed-wing, VTOL, and multirotor red-air targets under both shore-based installation defense and low-logistics mobile deployment scenarios, with a Distinguished Visitor Demonstration Day on August 20, 2026.

Applicants must submit detailed system specifications, environmental operating limits, launch and recovery methods, transport and portability features, NDAA compliance status, power requirements, intercept methodology and C2 link structure, and training curriculum via online form at https://forms.osi.apps.mil/r/GxxjSRmNUu. All participants must maintain general liability and aviation liability insurance and agree to release claims, indemnify the Government, and acknowledge the event as market research with no cost reimbursement. Direct inquiries to thunderdome2026@us.navy.mil.