OUSW-R&E/PE Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Launcher Challenge

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

The OUSW-R&E/PE Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Launcher Challenge is an open, rolling prototype opportunity seeking solutions to design and develop a launcher system capable of reliably, safely, and efficiently deploying Group 2–3 UAS platforms.

This is an Open Challenge, meaning submissions remain open for extended durations and are reviewed biweekly. There is no specified application deadline in the solicitation.

Multiple awards may be made. Successful prototypes may transition to follow-on task orders or scaled production. If you have a modular, portable, and field-ready launcher system that meets mechanical, operational, and safety requirements outlined in the Challenge, this is a live pathway into government prototype and potential production work.

How much funding would I receive?

The solicitation does not specify a defined award amount, ceiling, or funding range.

Key funding notes:

• Awards will be made under the One Nation Innovation Other Transactional Agreement (OTA) vehicle.

• The initial award may be augmented with additional prototype or production awards pending successful testing and government need.

• Multiple awards may be made.

Offerors must provide a ROM Cost Estimate covering prototype execution, integration, and optional production.

What could I use the funding for?

Funding supports development and demonstration of a UAS launcher prototype that meets the Challenge objectives.

The launcher must:

Mechanical Requirements

• Withstand repeated launches and environmental stresses

• Allow angle and direction modifications

• Be portable and field-deployable

• Deliver sufficient launch force without damaging the UAS

Operational Requirements

• Enable rapid setup and tear-down

• Include intuitive controls

• Operate on battery, generator, or manual power with backup options

• Function in wind, rain, and temperature extremes

Safety Requirements

• Prevent accidental launches

• Protect operators and UAS

• Include an emergency stop or abort feature

• Adhere to relevant safety standards and regulations

Environmental and Maintenance Requirements

• Use corrosion-resistant materials

• Be easy to inspect and maintain

• Minimize noise and environmental impact

Integration and Future-Proofing

• Integrate with ground control stations and telemetry systems

• Allow software and hardware upgrades

• Include data logging capability

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the initial prototype award:

• Potential for additional prototype or production awards

• Opportunity to transition to follow-on task orders or scaled production

• Engagement through the One Nation Innovation OTA vehicle, designed for rapid government acquisition

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

This is an Open Challenge.

• Submissions remain open for extended durations.

• Submissions are generally reviewed biweekly.

• There is no specified application deadline in the solicitation.

The solicitation does not specify a defined award decision timeline or funding disbursement schedule.

Offerors must include a Schedule outlining prototype delivery, deployment, and phased demonstration.

Where does this funding come from?

Awards will be made leveraging the One Nation Innovation Other Transactional Agreement (OTA) vehicle.

One Nation Innovation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit intermediary for rapid government acquisition and innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

The solicitation does not explicitly define eligibility restrictions.

Proposals must include:

• Organization name

• Lead point of contact

• Contact information

Proposals must also address readiness for classified work and ability to operate within government-managed prototype environments.

No additional eligibility limitations are specified in the solicitation.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Awards may be made based on:

• Technical merit

• Delivery readiness

• Mission alignment

Competitive solutions will demonstrate:

• Ability to accommodate Group 2–3 UAS platforms

• Modular, portable design

• Compliance with mechanical, operational, safety, environmental, and integration requirements

• Readiness for integration into government-managed prototype environments

Past performance from DoD or dual-use adjacent work demonstrating rapid deployment or technical advisory support is required.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Proposal length is limited to 10 pages (12pt Arial font).

• A separate cover page is required.

• Required proposal sections are explicitly defined (Technical Overview, Integration Path, ROM Cost Estimate, Past Performance, Schedule, Proposed Personnel Outline).

• Solutions must meet defined mechanical, operational, safety, environmental, and integration criteria.

• Security Requirements: None.

No cost share requirement is specified.

No defined funding cap is specified.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

The solicitation does not specify preparation timelines. However, the required 10-page proposal must include:

• Technical approach

• Integration readiness

• ROM cost estimate

• Relevant past performance

• Delivery schedule

• Personnel outline

For teams with an existing launcher solution or prototype, preparation time may be shorter. For earlier-stage concepts requiring detailed integration and cost modeling, preparation may require additional internal coordination.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Translate your existing launcher technology into a government-aligned Technical Overview

• Position your solution against the stated mechanical, operational, and safety criteria

• Structure your Integration Path for prototype environment readiness

• Develop a defensible ROM Cost Estimate narrative

• Highlight relevant DoD or dual-use past performance

• Ensure strict compliance with page limits and required sections

This is a rolling, biweekly review opportunity. Speed and clarity matter.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($13,000 + 5%) available.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.