DCI- ISU- FY25 Unmanned Aircraft with TetherSystems

The Illinois State Police (ISP) is seeking to procure unmanned aircraft systems with tethered stations through an Invitation for Bid (IFB) solicitation number 25-493ISP-OPERA-B-47779. The procurement specifically calls for five DJI or equivalent unmanned aircraft systems and five Elistair or equivalent tether power stations, with detailed technical requirements including minimum 40-minute flight times, specific camera resolutions, and operational temperature ranges. Bids must be submitted electronically through BidBuy by May 28, 2025, with bid responses remaining valid for 180 days from the opening date. The state will evaluate bids based on responsiveness, vendor responsibility, and lowest overall total price, with delivery of the equipment required no later than August 1, 2025. Vendors must provide comprehensive on-site training for up to 20 people within 30 days of product receipt, and the contract will have an initial term of six months with a maximum potential term of ten years.

The procurement includes a mandatory 3% Business Enterprise Program (BEP) participation goal for businesses owned by minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. Vendors must complete and submit a detailed Business Enterprise Program Utilization Plan demonstrating their commitment to engaging certified diverse businesses. The solicitation requires vendors to be registered in the Illinois Procurement Gateway and complete extensive vendor disclosure forms, including documentation of business ownership, financial interests, and compliance with state procurement regulations. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the procurement allows for potential federal funding and includes provisions for employment tax credits for hiring qualified veterans and ex-offenders. Vendors must comply with domestic product procurement policies that prefer United States-manufactured products, and the state reserves the right to reject any or all bids and make award decisions in the best interest of the state.