FRA Enterprise Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Delivery Model Validation

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) issued this Request for Information, identified by solicitation number 693JJ6FRAUAS, to evaluate potential enterprise delivery models for a national Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) capability. This Sources Sought notice seeks information regarding commercially available UAS platforms, purchasing and leasing options, sensors, payload configurations, and software solutions, including data processing and rendering services. The agency intends to use industry input to inform acquisition planning, develop lifecycle cost modeling, and identify the most effective operational approaches for integrating UAS technology into railroad safety and oversight activities. This notice is classified under PSC 1550 Unmanned Aircraft.

The identified UAS capabilities will support various operational uses, including railroad grade crossing inspections, accident and derailment investigations, and infrastructure and right-of-way assessments. The FRA also aims to utilize these systems for safety situational awareness within railroad operating environments, site distance analysis, obstruction evaluation, and trespassing detection. Vendors are invited to provide data on how their commercial solutions can support multiple delivery model approaches to meet these requirements.

Responses for this market research effort are due by April 8, 2026. The primary point of contact for this notice is KeriAnne Gallagher, and the designated place of performance is Washington, DC. The notice includes three attachments: a pricing template, technical requirements, and response instructions.