Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS), aka "Connects"
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Space Acquisition and Integration Office (SAIO), on behalf of the 21st Communications Squadron (21 CS), is exploring the consolidation of multiple communications contracts into a single Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) for Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS). This opportunity is a 100% 8(a) Small Business Set-Aside and seeks innovative solutions for IT services across Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station (CMSFS), CO. The CSO is expected to close on December 1, 2026.
Purpose
The government aims to transition from reactive, siloed IT support to a proactive, integrated, and data-driven enterprise service delivery framework. This consolidation seeks to remedy systemic inefficiencies, reduce costs, and modernize IT services by leveraging innovative commercial solutions.
Scope of Work
The CNECTS acquisition will consolidate services from existing contracts including Base Operating Support-Information Technology (BOS-IT), Cheyenne Mountain SFS 21 CS Communications Contract, Wing Information & Communications Support (WICS), and Plans and Programs Engineering Design Support (PEDS). Key areas of focus for innovative solutions include:
- AIOps for Predictive Network Operations: Implementing AIOps platforms for NIPR/SIPR networks to predict failures and automate root cause analysis.
- Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS): Consolidating legacy telephony, LMR, and Giant Voice systems into a unified IP-based platform.
- Digital Twin for Infrastructure Management: Creating dynamic digital twins of physical plant infrastructure for capacity planning and optimization.
- Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Implementing platforms for designing and documenting communication system architecture.
- Automated Design and Integration Analysis: Developing tools for compliance analysis with DOD/USSF architectures and cybersecurity standards.
- Agile Requirements Management: Introducing user-centric processes and digital platforms for requirements traceability.
- Integrated Mission Operations Center (MOC): Unifying monitoring and management of GBS, MILSATCOM, and base-level network services.
- Condition-Based and Predictive Maintenance: Implementing sensor and data analytics for MILSATCOM terminals.
- Digital Supply Chain and Logistics: Automating asset management and supply chain visibility.
- Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA): Architecting ZTA for ITW/AA and C2 systems.
- Secure DevOps (DevSecOps): Introducing pipelines for legacy mission systems.
- Hybrid Cloud Environment: Developing secure hybrid cloud for non-critical data processing.
Services remaining on CNECTS include NORAD/NORTHCOM support, marquee support, cable maintenance, and mission systems. New additions include Technical Control Facility Support at PSFB, Client Systems Technician/Help Desk, and DRSN at SSFB. Several AFNET-related services are being removed or reduced.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) leading to a Fixed Price (FAR-based) contract.
- NAICS Code: 517810 (All Other Telecommunications) with a $40M small business size standard.
- Set-Aside: 100% 8(a) Small Business.
- CSO Close Date: December 1, 2026.
- Estimated Award Timeline: February 2027.
- Projected Period of Performance Start: August 1, 2027.
Evaluation
Submissions will follow a multi-phase process: Phase I requires a PowerPoint briefing and Quad Chart, followed by an optional Phase II Pitch Session, and a final Phase III Technical Proposal, PWS, and Price Proposal. Evaluation criteria include Technical Merit/Applicability, Importance to Agency Programs, and Price & Value to the Government.
Additional Notes
Industry Day materials, including presentation slides and draft CSO/AOIs, are available for review. A consolidated Q&A log is anticipated by April 10, 2026. The government explicitly warns against submitting white papers before the authorized submission window, emphasizing that early submissions will be considered non-responsive. Interested parties should monitor SAM.gov for further updates and official submission instructions. Contact Rosalind Davis at rosalind.davis.3@spaceforce.mil for inquiries.