The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) provide Queensland with fire and rescue, emergency management, and disaster management programs and services. QFES has integrated Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), such as drones, for operational support and assistance. These RPAS have been used for land search, inspections, search and rescue, mountain rescue assistance, and compliance and safety activities. Notably, QFES employed their drone fleet for search and rescue operations during the major floods in Queensland in 2022.

Through a Request for Tender (RFT), QFES is seeking the supply of remotely piloted aircraft systems to expand their fleet. They are interested in acquiring RPAS with failsafe functions, satellite navigation systems, live camera streaming, visual navigation lights, and obstacle-avoidance sensors. Additionally, to enhance their fleet and ensure it consists of capable, technologically advanced assistance drones, QFES is looking for specific additional features, including the ability for 3D/2D mapping, a minimum range of 5 km, a weight range of 2-150 kg, and battery-powered operation.

These aircraft should also have payload capabilities, allowing them to assist with various mission types. Payload options include thermal imaging, optical zoom, laser rangefinders, LIDAR, gas detection, speakers, and payload dropping/discharge.

QFES is also seeking maintenance and training services alongside the RPAS acquisition. Supporting documents required for the application include an operating manual for any RPAS or payloads, information regarding support and maintenance, and warranty details.

Evaluation criteria include compliance with ethical supplier standards, approval for operation in Australia, and applicants being official distributors of the RPAS. Desirable criteria include product suitability, training availability, support quality, warranty terms, information security, and competitive pricing. There will be no industry briefing, however QFES accepts enquiries from potential tenderers.

The closing time and date for responses will remain open until the 7th of May 2024. 

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