Kristen Smith 
- Twelve companies hold positions on the vehicle, with Leidos and BAE Systems selected for both tracks
- Track 1 has a $1.01 billion ceiling, while Track 2 has a maximum value of $489 million
- Ordering runs from Aug. 1, 2026, through July 31, 2031
The Department of Homeland Security has awarded 14 positions on an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for counter-unmanned aircraft systems, splitting the work between a hardware group and a services group, according to data posted on USAspending. Combined orders under the contract shall not exceed $1.5 billion.
Twelve companies hold the awards. Leidos and BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services took positions in both tracks; the other 10 each hold a single spot. Ordering opened Aug. 1, 2026, and closes July 31, 2031. Each company received a $250 minimum guarantee at the time of award.
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Which Companies Won Track 1?
Seven companies will supply hardware, software and the services that go with them, including training, maintenance, installation and customization. Track 1 carries a ceiling of $1.01 billion, according to a solicitation DHS posted on SAM.gov in December 2025.
The awardees are Dedrone Defense, D-Fend Solutions AD, Leidos, Fortem Technologies, CACI Inc.-Federal, BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services, and EMS Defense Technologies.
Fortem said it is the only small business among the seven and named Lockheed Martin and Microsoft as subcontractors on its team.
Which Companies Won Track 2?
The comprehensive services track went to Booz Allen Hamilton, General Dynamics Information Technology, Parsons Government Services, BAE Systems Technology Solutions & Services, Leidos, Anduril Industries and Astrion Group. Its ceiling stands at $489 million.
Work under that track covers three areas: counter-drone capability delivered as a fully managed service, system integration to make equipment interoperable, and support for research, development, testing and evaluation.
What Capabilities Is DHS Buying?
The statement of work included in the solicitation noted that systems must detect a drone at a minimum distance of 2 kilometers, follow at least three UAS simultaneously, and neutralize a threat at a minimum distance of 500 meters. Track history has to refresh in 20 seconds or less.
DHS wants equipment for fixed sites such as airports and government facilities, as well as portable systems that can be carried, mounted on vehicles, or deployed from aircraft and vessels. The department cited securing national special security events and special event assessment rating events among the drivers.
How Did the Procurement Run?
DHS issued the solicitation as a full and open competition, with proposals due Dec. 8. FedScoop reported that 47 companies competed for the awards. The Office of Procurement Operations handled contracting, with the Science and Technology Directorate as the funding agency.
The department can add vendors later. The solicitation reserves the right to reopen periodically for new proposals and to remove contractors that go a year without an active order.
