Unmanned Aerial Systems Framework

Concepts

• land transport
• unmanned aerial systems framework
• a uas framework
• unmanned
• aerial
• technical training
• support services
• year
• network rail
• caa standards

Location

National - England, Wales, Scotland

Description

Network Rail is seeking to put in place a UAS framework for the provision of services to help manage its national infrastructure and estate 365 days per year.

Total Quantity or Scope

Network Rail is seeking to put in place a UAS framework for the provision of services to help manage its national infrastructure. The framework will provide Network Rail with access to several service providers support Network Rail in maintaining its existing in-house UAS capability through the training, to CAA standards, of UAS(drone) operators.

CPV Codes

• 63710000 - Support services for land transport
• 80531200 - Technical training services

Indicators

• Restrictions apply to the lot award allocation.

Other Information

It is anticipated that the framework will consist of 3 lots, each with multiple suppliers serving England, Scotland and Wales. The framework will provide Network Rail with access to several professional UAS operators/service providers to deliver survey capability across England, Scotland and Wales. Additionally, the framework will provide access to suppliers to support Network Rail in maintaining its existing in-house UAS hardware and operating capability. Network Rail has used professional UAS operators since 2014 to survey its assets and undertake inspections. In 2019, it obtained its own CAA operational authorisation to conduct commercial drone operations and today it has over 200 volunteer pilots and a fleet of around 400 drones supplimenting services from external drone service suppliers. Requests for further information and any questions or clarifications in respect of this RFI should be addressed to Graham.Holbrook@networkrail.co.uk Please note any discussions which do occur will cease immediately should a formal competition ultimately be announced. Network Rail is committed to ensuring fairness, openness and transparency, and to following UK procurement regulations. The Periodic Indicative Notice is issued solely for the purpose of conducting pre-procurement market engagement via a request for information and does not constitute any commitment to undertake any procurement in the future. Interested parties will not be prejudiced by any response or failure to respond to the PIN event and a response to this PIN does not guarantee any invitation to participate in this event or any future procurement. This PIN does not constitute a call for competition to procure any services, supplies or works mentioned in this PIN and Network Rail will not accept any proposals offered in response to this PIN. Network Rail is not liable for any costs, fees, or expenses incurred by any party in replying to or attending any PIN event. Any procurement of any services, supplies or works by Network Rail will be carried out strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Utilities Contracts Regulations 2016. Network Rail would like to thank you in advance should you wish to respond to this Request for Information.