The US Defense Department's Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has launched a targeted solicitation for counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) technologies, aiming for a Spring 2026 demonstration at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. This initiative addresses escalating drone threats to fixed installations and small military units, aligning with priorities in security, surveillance, radar, sensors, and unmanned systems. Proposals are divided into two Lines of Effort (LOE), each demanding innovative sensing solutions tailored to high-stakes operational environments.

LOE 1 focuses on persistent, high-fidelity protective sensing for fixed US installations. Systems must include radar as a core component, augmented by single or multi-modal sensors, to operate safely near populated areas, in congested airspace, and complex electromagnetic settings dominated by lawful emitters. These solutions aim to replace or enhance legacy fixed-site sensors, delivering detection, tracking, and classification of Group 2 and Group 3 UAS with actionable threat data. Emphasis is placed on safety and reliability to minimize risks in civilian-adjacent zones, providing B2B value for infrastructure and facilities suppliers integrating advanced radar and communications tech.

LOE 2 targets resilient, mobile sensing for small units, both stationary and on-the-move, in GNSS-denied or degraded environments. Low physical and spectral signatures are critical for survivability in contested battlespaces, enabling early warning without enemy detection. Preferred passive approaches must rapidly adapt to threats, feature quick setup, minimal calibration, high mean time between failures, and efficient operator repairs. Systems require simultaneous multi-UAS tracking, discrimination from clutter, and biologicals for a clear air picture—ideal for training, simulation, and electronic warfare applications.

DIU encourages teaming, potentially pairing AI/ML specialists with C-UAS integrators to accelerate innovation. Responses are due by February 26, 2026, opening doors for defence contractors, technology providers, and system integrators to secure government procurement contracts. This solicitation reflects strategic investments in counter-drone tech amid rising UAS proliferation, offering vendor deals and R&D opportunities in cybersecurity and protective systems.

For industry partners, the Yuma demo represents a gateway to deployment, with successful prototypes likely advancing to production and fielding. The dual LOE structure accommodates diverse capabilities, from urban perimeter defense to forward-operating tactics, bolstering homeland security and military operations. Vendors should highlight modularity, scalability, and integration potential to stand out in this competitive tender process.

This move underscores the US commitment to agile acquisition, prioritizing speed-to-field over bureaucratic delays. Participants gain visibility in the burgeoning C-UAS market, as tracked in resources like the Unmanned Airspace Global Counter-UAS Directory, which details over 1,000 products across sub-sectors. For B2B decision-makers, it's a prime chance to influence defence equipment standards, fostering partnerships in radar, sensors, and communications ecosystems.