Planned contract valued at $20 million to $50 million covers a range of security services, including counter-UAS expertise and small-drone cybersecurity.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has updated a procurement forecast for security services that include counter-drone technology, cybersecurity, and training. The planned contract has an estimated value of $20 million to $50 million and covers several areas of terrorism prevention and risk management.
The forecast, published October 26, identifies the requirement as “Terrorism and Targeted Violence Risk Mitigation.” It falls under DHS headquarters and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The contract is not exclusively focused on drones. However, the inclusion of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) cybersecurity and counter-UAS expertise highlights their role in the department’s broader security planning.
Counter-UAS Research, Training, and Support
According to the forecast, the contractor will provide research, product development, training, analytical support, and risk management services. The scope specifically includes cybersecurity related to small drones and counter-UAS activities. Other responsibilities include active assailant prevention, insider threat mitigation, public and private sector outreach, and general security support.
The forecast does not identify specific counter-drone technologies or equipment purchases. It also does not specify how much of the estimated contract value will support drone-related activities.
The requirement focuses on a broad range of professional services, including the development and delivery of in-person and virtual training.
Part of a Broader DHS Counter-Drone Mission
DHS has an established role in addressing drone threats to public safety and critical infrastructure.
In its 2024 Countering Unmanned Aircraft Systems program overview, the department describes work to evaluate counter-UAS technologies and improve capabilities for detecting, tracking, identifying, and responding to potentially threatening drones.
The new procurement forecast addresses a related need: providing the research, training, cybersecurity expertise, and operational support that can help agencies prepare for security threats.
However, DHS has not identified specific new counter-UAS capabilities or deployments associated with this contract.
Procurement Timeline and Next Steps
The planned procurement is a follow-on contract, meaning it continues an existing requirement. DHS identifies CELEEN LLC as the incumbent contractor.
The opportunity is designated as a small-business set-aside under the federal OASIS+ contracting vehicle.
DHS currently anticipates releasing a solicitation on December 7, 2026, with a contract award expected during the second quarter of fiscal year 2027.
These dates and the estimated contract value remain subject to change. The forecast does not represent a contract award or a new funding commitment.
For the drone industry, the planned procurement provides another example of how federal security programs incorporate drone cybersecurity and counter-UAS expertise into broader risk management and preparedness activities.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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