For U.S DoW, Drone Proliferation Boosts Market for Counter-UAS Tech

Drones and uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) may be among the fastest-growing tools in the military, but countering them has become a critical need. The U.S. military’s Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401) has created an online platform to aid how the U.S. Department of War (DoW) and its interagency partners will acquire and develop counter-UAS technology.

The markets for UAS and counter-UAS equipment are growing rapidly and acquiring new equipment, along with testing it for in-field readiness in different environmental conditions, must pick up speed as well. 

According to Army Brigadier General Matthew Ross, the JIATF-401 director, “The JIATF-401 UAS marketplace is a critical step forward in our whole-of-government approach to countering the threat of small drones.” He added, “Our goal is to integrate sensors, effectors, and mission command systems into a responsive, interoperable network that protects service members and American citizens alike.”

The UAS/counter-UAS marketplace has been based on the indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) process long practiced by the defense community, even though it tends to extend delivery times.

The new marketplace uses a common hardware scheme where customers can define the equipment they need. It encourages customers to identify usable equipment, place orders immediately, and speed the procurement process, especially as required by accelerating UAS/counter-UAS technologies. 

As U.S. Army Major Matt Mellor, the lead acquisitions specialist assigned to JIATF-401, observed, “We've worked to create a platform that not only simplifies the procurement process, but also provides the crucial data and expert support necessary for our customers to make informed decisions. This is about getting the best technology into the hands of those who need it as quickly as possible.”

Access to the marketplace is available to users throughout the War Department and inter-agency partners via a common access card or other government-issued smart card.