# Industry Urges Faster C-UAS Fielding

A Federal News Network commentary argues that lengthy defense acquisition cycles and regulatory burdens can slow counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) development and fielding. It recommends modular solutions and clearer procurement pathways for small and midsized firms to help accelerate innovation. Separately, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered reviews of sole-source 8(a) contracts valued above $20 million. The signal identifies no specific C-UAS solicitation, award, or funding opportunity, so it describes acquisition challenges and oversight rather than an active bid opportunity.

- Defense procurement teams and C-UAS suppliers can use the commentary’s recommendations to assess whether modular approaches and accessible pathways could help bring capabilities to the field faster.
- Small and midsized businesses may find clearer routes to compete important, while agencies face the challenge of balancing faster procurement with acquisition and oversight requirements.
- Firms involved in sole-source 8(a) contracts valued above **$20 million** should note the announced review; the signal does not specify review timelines or individual contract impacts.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

### Vendors
- AimLock ()

### Sources
- [
        Not a prime or small opportunity: Why we can’t depend on legacy procurement processes to bring the next wave of C-UAS innovation - Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/commentary/2026/11/not-a-prime-or-small-opportunity-why-we-cant-depend-on-legacy-procurement-processes-to-bring-the-next-wave-of-c-uas-innovation) - Federal News Network