The Defense Innovation Unit invites qualified organizations to serve as recognized assessors, who will review drone platforms and associated components for compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA.
The NDAA assessment will inform the process of certifying drones for the Blue Unmanned Aerial Systems Cleared List, DIU said Monday. It also advances the government’s efforts to collaborate with industry, nonprofits, academic institutions and federally affiliated organizations for national security programs.
Recognized Assessors’ Responsibilities and Qualifications
The selected entities will conduct compliance assessments on relevant components, verify ownership and interest stakes to determine eligibility, review supply chain provenance and software/firmware/hardware artifacts, and submit assessment reports for DIU’s certification. If tapped for the program, the assessors will directly engage with companies looking to secure spots in the Blue UAS Cleared List.
For the initial cohort of candidates, DIU will work with organizations that can demonstrate technical expertise and experience, organizational independence and the ability to scale projects. The entities should also adhere to government standards, reporting format and audit oversight. In addition, candidates with expertise in regulation, supply chain forensics, business intelligence, reverse engineering and cybersecurity will be strongly considered for the initiative.
Interested parties can submit presentations or white papers detailing their capabilities no later than June 16.
