The National Aeronautics and Space Administration indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity, sole-source contract is for a five-year period with a value not to exceed $25 million.

NASA said the contract supports its Dryden Flight Research Center's planned operation of the two drone aircraft, their associated ground control station and related systems. Technical assistance will include analysis, design support for unique systems, simulations, software development and engineering, and operational and manufacturing support as needed.

"Dryden will use the autonomously operated unmanned aircraft for missions supporting NASA's Science Mission Directorate and the Earth science community that need high-altitude, long-endurance, long-distance airborne capability," the space agency said in a statement.

The two pre-production, advanced concept technology demonstration aircraft were recently transferred to Dryden from the U.S. Air Force, which had no further requirement for the craft.