Opportunity
SBIR / STTR #DAF26BX06-DV026
SBIR Solicitation for Autonomous AI-Enabled Drone Swarm Perimeter Defense
Buyer
United States Government
Posted
September 02, 2026
Respond By
October 21, 2026
Identifier
DAF26BX06-DV026
NAICS
541715, 541330, 541690
This opportunity seeks innovative solutions for military perimeter protection using autonomous AI-enabled drone swarms. - Government Buyer: - Department of the Air Force - Air Mobility Command (AMC) - Air National Guard - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; open to eligible small businesses - Products/Services Requested: - Research, development, and demonstration of ground and air launched drone swarms - Targeted for high-altitude deployment from platforms like C-130 and KC-135 - Secure encrypted military communications integration - Autonomous swarm operation for perimeter defense and force protection - Dual-use applications: intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), disaster response, environmental monitoring - Technology Readiness Level 7 military-adapted prototype - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Compliance with cybersecurity standards - Export control and technical data rights - Direct to Phase II SBIR effort (no Phase I awards) - Integration with military air platforms and operational deployment - Airworthiness certification and transition to production in Phase III - Collaboration with partners such as NOAA and Air National Guard for dual-use applications
Description
This solicitation focuses on the development of drone swarms capable of creating a self-protecting perimeter using autonomous AI technology. The project aims to enhance security and operational capabilities of drone systems in military applications. It is part of the SBIR program and includes instructions and preface documents available via provided links. The response deadline for proposals is February 16, 2017.