Scope
Description
Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) are a vital capability for Defence, requiring defence to rapidly assess, develop and use new capabilities. The aim of this PMEN is to understand the current capability of industry to be part of a commercial framework of competent and approved civilian organisations to support MOD UAS Test and Evaluation (T&E) in a more efficient way. UK MOD is seeking companies to submit proposals for the following:
-The capability to conduct UAS T&E in accordance with Regulatory Article (RA) 1031: Contractor flying approved organization scheme (basic remotely piloted air systems) (CFAOS (BR).
-The ability to gain MAA CFAOS (BR) approval within 6 months of a T&E commercial framework being established.
-Equivalence of civilian T&E qualifications to MAA qualifications required for CFAOS (BR) approval.
- To conduct relatively short notice UAS T&E on Open - S1 platforms or system of systems.
Commercial tool
Establishes a framework
Total value (estimated)
- £0 excluding VAT
- £0 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2030
- Possible extension to 31 March 2032
- 5 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 71600000 - Technical testing, analysis and consultancy services
- 71631000 - Technical inspection services
- 73100000 - Research and experimental development services
- 34711200 - Non-piloted aircraft
- 71356000 - Technical services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
14 November 2025
Engagement process description
This notice is for the Defence Uncrewed Systems Design Authority (DUxDA) to understand the current state of the market of civilian UAS T&E organisations that may operate military UAS under MAA CFAOS (BR) Regulations to undertake T&E activity. The description is deliberately high level so as not to unduly limit the scope of discussions with the market. The Authority wishes to understand the current civilian T&E UAS organisations, T&E SQEP/qualifications and supporting T&E facilities.
The DUxDA intends to hold a industry day with interested suppliers between 19/11/2025 - 26/11/2025.
Contact email: UKStratCom-Cap-SP-DUxDA-Mailbox@mod.gov.uk
This notice is solely for the purpose of engaging the market to gather information. It does not constitute a call for competition or form part of any formal procurement process. Participation in this engagement will not confer any advantage or disadvantage in any future procurement, nor will it bind the Authority to proceed with any specific course or action.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
1 April 2026
Procedure
Special regime
Defence and security
Contracting authority
Ministry of Defence
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHVX-4316-ZVGZ
Whitehall, London
London
SW1A 2HB
United Kingdom
Email: example.example@mod.gov.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-defence
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government