Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS), aka "Connects"

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI is issued by the Space Acquisition and Integration Office (SAIO) for market research to determine the availability of commercial services capable of supporting mission-critical IT systems in secure environments. The government is seeking information on industry capabilities, commercial practices, and potential solutions.

The services required include, but are not limited to:

• Engineering IT solutions for secure mission systems.
• Responding to customer service requests for mission-critical networks.
• Planning and executing future solutions for secure communications networks.
• Developing and executing cybersecurity plans.
• Managing the Risk Management Framework (RMF) for secure systems.
• Operational support for IT systems in isolated and secure environments.

Unique requirements include personnel working in secure, isolated environments, knowledge of antiquated secure systems, and adherence to strict security protocols.

This RFI is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or a commitment to procure services. The planned acquisition strategy is a Commercial Solutions Offering (CSO) limited to Small Business Entities. The estimated timeline to award is 12 months, with an estimated award date in February 2027.

Responses are requested via email to rosalind.davis.3@spaceforce.mil no later than 23 February 2026. Responses should include company information, a brief description of capabilities and experience, and answers to specific questions posed in the RFI. Responses are limited to 7 pages.

The NAICS Code is 517810 (All Other Telecommunications) with a Small Business size standard of $40M. The planned acquisition strategy is limited to Small Business Entities.

Information submitted will be held in strict confidentiality. The RFI includes several attachments for review, including legacy contracts, a PWS, and a consolidated requirements matrix.

Other / Unclassified

This document is an Industry Day Notice for the Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS) Contract, an approximately $330M Information Technology Consulting and Management Services contract with a significant mission systems operations component. The Combat Forces Command (CFC) Space Acquisition and Integration Office (SAIO) is hosting this event to inform qualified contractors and gather industry input.

This notice provides crucial details for potential bidders interested in the CNECTS contract:

• Event Purpose: To provide information and planning purposes regarding the upcoming CNECTS contract. No solicitation documents will be distributed, and attendance does not commit the government to any contract.
• Event Details:
  • Date: March 11, 2026
  • Time: Arrival as early as 0900
  • Location: Penrose House, Carriage House Conference Room, 1661 Mesa Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
• Attendance Options:
  • In-Person: Limited to 2 persons per contractor, first-come, first-served basis. Registration required by February 23, 2026.
  • Virtual: Unlimited participation. Separate meeting invitations will be provided upon registration.
• Preliminary Agenda: Topics include contract history, requirements, CFC structure, acquisition strategy, and an open forum for questions.
• One-on-One Sessions: Scheduled for March 12-13, 2026 (30-minute sessions), first-come, first-served. Specific date/time preferences can be requested during registration.
• Industry Input Requested: Bidders are asked to submit responses by February 23, 2026, on contracting specifics, acquisition plan, focus areas, evaluation criteria, risk assessment, and other relevant topics. White paper requirements will also be discussed.
• Registration Deadline: February 23, 2026. Registration details and submission requirements are provided, including company information, point of contact, and attendance preference.
• Point of Contact: Rosalind Davis, Contracting Officer (rosalind.davis.3@spaceforce.mil).
• Disclaimer: All information is preliminary and subject to change. Final requirements will be in the formal solicitation.

Other / Unclassified

This document outlines differences between requirements for the CNECTS contract and legacy contracts, detailing services that will remain with CNECTS, additions to the CNECTS scope, and services being removed or reduced. It also lists potential future activities.

This document is crucial for bidders to understand the specific scope of work for the CNECTS contract. It clarifies which services are being retained, which are new additions (potentially indicating growth areas or shifts in responsibility), and which are being removed. This helps potential bidders assess their capabilities and tailor their proposals to the defined requirements, particularly noting new services at PSFB and SSFB, and the potential absorption of other contracts.

• NORAD/NORTHCOM (N/NC) services (from NISSC II contract)

• Marquee Support (for CMSFS only)

• Cable Maintenance (not picked up by BIM)

• Non-AFNET Cabling (at CMSFS only)

• PMI

• MEP/Confined Space

• PDS walks

• Escorting for all Comm related functions

• CLIN - MISSION Systems

• SSR/O duties for 21 CS controlled SCIFS (new to PSFS and SSFS)

• Video Work Center (for CMSFS only)

• Technical Control Facility Support (at PSFB)

• Clients Systems Technician/Help Desk

• Network Switch install (new for PSFB)

• Zero Client install/mnx (new for PSFB)

• Executive Comm (for PSFB)

• Cable TV mnx and install (for 21 CS at PSFB and SSFB)

• Cable TV install, mnx and services (for all non-21 CS users)

• Printer management & Touch Mnx (new to PSFB)

• Potential addition of absorbing multiple independent CST/Help Desk Contracts (on PSFB and SSFS)

• PNVC (new to PSFB)

• DRSN (new to SSFB)

• SLAs – Agreements between 21 CS and squadrons

• Database management (reduced to 21 CS systems for SSFS)

• Com Focal Point (standard duty day hours, new to CMSFS)

• Removal of NOC (CMSF)

• Removal of Vindicator (CMFSF)

• Removal of Mail Room (CMSFS)

• AFNET NIPRNet and SIPRNet Infrastructure Management (new to CMSFS and SSFB)

• AFNET Network Operations (new to CMSFS and SSFB)

• VoIP

• Vulnerability Management

• Land Mobile Radio

• Spectrum Management

• Circuit Actions

• BIM Duties

• AFNET OSP/ISP

• AFNET ISP from comm closet to desktop

• AFNET Cable Break-Fix

• AFNET NIPR/SIPR Engineering

• AFNET Cable Engineering

• AFNET 24/7 NOC

• N/NC assuming control of N/NC Infrastructure, Operations, Help Desk, Comm Focal Point, and all other inherent duties.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Requirements Matrix, likely intended to map specific tasks or requirements to different Performance Work Statement (PWS) sections or contract line items. It appears to be an Excel spreadsheet detailing various IT and support services.

The matrix lists numerous tasks and locations, categorizing them as 'Common Task' or 'Unique Task'. It cross-references these tasks with codes such as 'B' (BOS-IT PWS), 'P' (PEDS), 'W' (WICS), 'GV' (Giant Voice), and 'C' (21 CS CMSFS), indicating which PWS or contract section applies to each item. Specific examples include Program Management, Network Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Client Systems Technicians, and various support services.

This matrix is crucial for bidders to understand the detailed breakdown of requirements and how they map to different PWS sections or contract areas. It helps in assessing the scope of work, identifying specific technical or service requirements, and potentially in developing a comprehensive proposal that addresses all mandated tasks and their associated contract references.

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI is issued by the Space Acquisition and Integration Office (SAIO) for the 21st Communications Squadron (21 CS) at Peterson SFB, CO. The SAIO is conducting market research to identify commercial services capable of supporting mission-critical IT systems in secure environments. This RFI is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. Responses will be used solely for market research.

The government is seeking commercial services for:

• Engineering IT solutions for secure mission systems.
• Responding to customer service requests for mission-critical networks.
• Planning and executing future solutions for secure communications networks.
• Developing and executing cybersecurity plans.
• Managing the Risk Management Framework (RMF).
• Operational support for IT systems in isolated and secure environments.

Unique requirements include potential work in secure, isolated environments for extended periods, knowledge of antiquated secure systems and government-specific standards, and potential classified work with strict security protocols.

• Planned Acquisition Strategy: Commercial Solutions Offering (CSO) limited to Small Business Entities.

• NAICS Code: 517810 (All Other Telecommunications) with a $40M small business size standard.

• Estimated Timeline to Award: 12 Months – February 2027.

• Response Due Date: 23 February, 2026.

• Submission Instructions: Email responses to [Insert Contact Email].

• Response Limit: 7 pages.

Respondents are requested to address:

• Company capabilities and experience with similar services.

• Commercial availability of services to non-governmental entities.

• Extent of customization required.

• Experience in secure, isolated, or classified environments.

• Established market prices.

• Past performance with government agencies.

• CMMC Certification status and progress.

• Familiarity with Base Infrastructure Modernization (BIM) and any lessons learned or risks to the CNECTS contract.

• Any other relevant factors.

• Performance Work Statements (PWSs), changes from legacy contracts, and a requirements matrix are included for review. Requirements highlighted in RED on the matrix will NOT be included in the CNECTS requirement.

• Responses should be at the unclassified level.

• The government will protect proprietary information.

• No costs incurred in responding will be reimbursed.

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the requirements for Base Operating Support - Information Technology (BOS-IT) services for Space Base Delta 1 (SBD 1) at Peterson Space Force Base (PSFB) and Schriever Space Force Base (SSFB), Colorado. The goal is to ensure the operation, maintenance, and logistics of IT systems supporting SBD 1's mission of developing space and cyberspace warfighting superiority.

• Network Infrastructure: Operation and maintenance of NIPRNET and SIPRNET at Schriever SFB, including switches, routers, servers, and cryptographic devices.

• Network Operations (NetOps): Management of servers supporting mission users at Schriever SFB.

• Client Systems Team (CST): NIPR and SIPR client-level support for approximately 6,500 users at Schriever and 13,000 at Peterson.

• Base Equipment Control Office (BECO): Oversight of IT equipment custodian accounts at both bases.

• Cybersecurity: Support for PSFB and associated Geographically Separated Units (GSUs).

• Communications Focal Point (CFP): Support for SSFB and PSFB.

• Local Registration Authority (LRA): Services for SSFB, PSFB, and associated GSUs.

• Cable Maintenance: Operation and maintenance of cable infrastructure at Peterson SFB.

• Enterprise Information Management (EIM): Support for collaboration tools like SharePoint for SBD 1.

• Mission Critical outages resolved within 24 hours (80% target).

• Maximum Trouble Ticket Age: No actionable tickets to exceed 8 business days.

• VIP Trouble Ticket Resolution: 95% resolved within 1 business day, 5% within 3 business days.

• Project Deadline Compliance: 100% of agreed milestones met.

• Customer Satisfaction: No more than 5% unsatisfactory comments per month.

• 100% compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

• Zero security incidents; no compromise/loss of classified information.

• Performance is required at Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB, Colorado, and potentially associated Geographically Separated Units (GSUs).

• Personnel: Must possess required security clearances (Secret/Top Secret/SCI as applicable) and DoD 8140 certifications.

• Program Management: Requires a Program Management Plan, Quality Control Plan (QCP), and regular Program Management Reviews (PMRs).

• Training: Contractor is responsible for specialized and ancillary training for personnel.

• Security: Strict adherence to information security, OPSEC, physical security, and resource protection protocols is mandatory.

• Reporting: Contractor Manpower Reporting via SAM.gov is required.

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI is issued by the Space Acquisition and Integration Office (SAIO) on behalf of the 21st Communications Squadron (21 CS) at Peterson SFB, CO. The government is conducting market research to determine the feasibility of consolidating four existing communications and IT support contracts under a single, larger contract. This RFI is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation.

The government is exploring the consolidation of the following four requirements:

• Base Operating Support-Information Technology (BOS-IT): Supports IT systems operations, maintenance, and logistics for Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB, including the Giant Voice PWS.
• Cheyenne Mountain SFS 21 CS Communications Contract: Supports operations and maintenance of Cheyenne Mountain SFS Information Systems Infrastructure, including communications, computing, and network systems.
• Wing Information & Communications Support (WICS): Supports Schriever SFB Installation information and communications systems, including operations, maintenance, logistics, communication support, and security (focusing on the 21 CS-related portion).
• Plans and Programs Engineering Design Support (PEDS): Provides systems engineering, design, installation, testing, and documentation for secure/non-secure network systems at Schriever SFB.

Vendors are requested to provide detailed responses regarding:

• Company information (Name, CAGE, UEI, Address, POC).
• Experience providing similar services under existing contracts.
• Assessment of the proposed NAICS code (517810) and potential alternatives.
• Feasibility, efficiencies, cost savings, challenges, and solutions related to consolidating these requirements.
• Impact of consolidation on schedule, performance, and customer satisfaction.
• Ability of small businesses to perform the combined requirement and potential modifications to enhance small business suitability.
• Interest in proposing as a prime contractor and anticipated teaming structures.
• Examples of successful similar contract consolidations.
• Potential impacts on the competitive landscape and industrial base.
• Consideration of alternative, less consolidated approaches.

Responses are due by 1400 MT on Wednesday, 20 August 2025. Submit via email to Mr. Austin Frindt (austin.frindt@spaceforce.mil) and copy Mr. Harsh Hariyani (harsh.hariyani@spaceforce.mil). Late responses will be accepted and considered.

Questions can be directed to Mr. Austin Frindt via email or phone at 719-556-6947.

Performance-Based Work Statement (PWS)

This PWS outlines the requirements for on-site, embedded engineering support for the 50th Communications Squadron (50 CS) at Schriever Space Force Base (SSFB), Colorado. The primary goal is to provide comprehensive communications systems engineering, design, installation, testing, and documentation services.

• Engineering Services: Includes technical solution and costing (TS&C) development, problem analysis, technical assessments, and design support for communications systems (telephone, video, data, transport, computer networks).

• Documentation: Maintaining current and future communications systems documentation in systems like the Phoenix Database and Cyberspace Infrastructure Planning System (CIPS) Visualization Component (CVC).

• Configuration Management: Inputting, editing, and removing configuration management records within designated systems.

• Implementation Support: Providing engineering support for the implementation, coordination, and installation of communication infrastructure designs.

• Security: Adhering to all SSFB security requirements, including obtaining necessary security clearances (minimum SECRET, with at least two personnel requiring TS-SCI).

• Quality Control: Establishing and maintaining a quality control program to ensure services meet PWS requirements.

• Technical solutions to be completed within 20 days of task receipt (90% threshold).

• Submission of technical solution and implementation plan documents at least 30 days prior to scheduled installation (95% threshold).

• Correction of design discrepancies found during testing within 1 duty day (95% threshold).

• Monthly Activity Reports (MARs) and performance metrics are required.

• Services are to be performed on-site at Schriever Space Force Base, CO.

• Office hours are Monday through Friday, 0730-1630.

• Personnel: Contractor Program Manager (CPM) required. Employees must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English. Government reserves the right to remove contractor employees for security or misconduct.

• Security Clearances: Minimum SECRET required for all personnel; at least two personnel must possess TS-SCI clearance.

• Government Furnished Property/Services: The Government will provide facilities, furniture, equipment, software, records, parking, and utilities.

• Reporting: Labor hours must be reported via a secure data collection site on SAM.gov. Monthly Activity Reports (MARs) are required.

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the requirements for providing Wing Information & Communications Support (WICS-II) services at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado. The primary goal is to support the operation, maintenance, and logistics of information and communications systems for Space Base Delta 1 (SBD 1) and its tenant organizations.

• System Support: Encompasses support for various information and communications systems including Global Broadcast Service (GBS), Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS), Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminal (FAB-T), Global Command and Control System (GCCS), Space Digital Integrated Network (SDIN), and Mission Impact Reporting (MIR).

• Services: Includes operations, mission systems maintenance, maintenance management, logistics management, communication support, security, emergency notification systems, testing, and support for emerging technologies.

• Locations: Services are required at Schriever Space Force Base (SSFB), Colorado, with potential support for remote tracking stations and command and control facilities globally.

• Availability: Specific operational availability thresholds are defined for systems like the GBS Operations Center (GBSOC) SBM (99.00%).

• Response Times: Strict response times are mandated for service requests, incident resolution (e.g., GBSOC service desk within 5 minutes), and corrective maintenance (within 5 minutes for critical outages).

• Reporting: Numerous reports are required, including Program Management Plans, Mission-Essential Contractor Services Plans, Quality Control Plans, GBS Monthly Status Reports, Monthly Activity Reports, and Master Document Lists.

• Place: Primarily Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, with potential for remote support.

• Period: Not explicitly stated in this excerpt, but implies ongoing support.

• Personnel: Requirements for English proficiency, security clearances (Secret to Top Secret/SCI for specific roles), and specific certifications (e.g., DoD 8570.01-M, IAT Level II, IAM Level II).

• Program Management: Contractor must provide a Program Management Plan, Mission-Essential Contractor Services Plan, and Quality Control Plan.

• Cybersecurity: Emphasis on cybersecurity compliance, including specific certifications and adherence to DoD and Air Force directives.

• Contingency Operations: Requirements for supporting Continuity of Operations Plans (COOP) and contingency operations.

• Reporting: Extensive reporting requirements via Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs).

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This PWS outlines the requirements for operations and maintenance support for the Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station (CMSFS) Information Systems Infrastructure, ensuring the continued availability and effectiveness of critical communication systems for the 21st Communications Squadron (21 CS).

The contractor shall provide comprehensive support across various work centers, including:

• 21 CS Support: Maintaining system user capability and ensuring availability of CMSFS Information Systems Infrastructure through Tier 0 (Help Desk), Tier 1 (Server, application, network), and Tier 2 (Engineering, vendor) support.

• Management and Reporting: Establishing clear communication and coordination, managing security clearances (SECRET and TS/SCI), providing technical training, maintaining continuity binders, and reporting on system and service metrics.

• Commander’s Inspection Program (CCIP): Supporting inspection programs, appointing Quality Assurance Representatives (QARs), and participating in self-assessment programs.

• Information Assurance & Network Security: Receiving, tracking, and responding to vulnerabilities (NOTAMs, TCNOs, IAVAs), performing vulnerability assessments, and managing cybersecurity events.

• Work Order Management: Processing and resolving work orders for installations, removals, and wiring relocations within defined timelines.

• Communications Focal Point (CFP): Serving as a single point of contact for issue resolution, ticket management, and coordinating preventive maintenance.

• Network Operations Center (NOC): Providing 24/7/365 network and system monitoring, cyber directive compliance, and basic system administration.

• Technical Control Facility (TCF): Offering circuit support, troubleshooting, and maintenance for over 800 circuits.

• Network Control Center (NCC) Help Desk: Operating a consolidated Tier 1 and some Tier 2 support for data communications systems.

• Server Support (SSG): Providing O&M for servers, VDI infrastructure, and applications.

• Infrastructure Support Group (ISG): Managing network infrastructure equipment like switches, routers, and firewalls.

• Material Control: Operating a supply office and supporting Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Disposition Services.

• Cybersecurity Sustainment Engineering: Ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data through security authorization packages and vulnerability management.

• Message Delivery Center (MDC): Maintaining the SMART.neXt system and other mission systems.

• Global Command and Control System (GCCS): Ensuring operational availability and providing system administration.

• Defense Red Switch Network (DRSN): Operating and maintaining secure voice and conferencing capabilities.

• Family of Advanced Beyond Line-of-Sight Terminal (FAB-T): Operating and maintaining terminals and antenna systems.

• Black Switch: Providing O&M for unclassified voice telecommunications equipment.

• Configuration and Data Management: Ensuring integrity of systems and availability of artifacts and data.

• Specific response and resolution times for various ticket categories (Low, Med, High, Critical).

• Performance standards for network uptime, security compliance, and inspection results.

• Requirements for reporting metrics, conducting reviews (PMRs), and maintaining documentation.

• Services are to be performed at Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station (CMSFS) and potentially other locations as specified.

• Security clearances (SECRET, TS/SCI) are required for various positions.

• Compliance with numerous DoD, Air Force, and NIST standards and instructions.

• Personnel must maintain required certifications (e.g., 8570/8140).

• Adherence to safety and health regulations (OSHA, AFOSH).

• Transition-in and transition-out activities are detailed.

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This PWS outlines the requirements for non-personal services to provide maintenance and installation for Giant Voice/Emergency Broadcast Systems (EBS) and Public Address (PA) Systems at Peterson Space Force Base (PSFB) and Schriever Space Force Base (SSFB).

• System Maintenance: Perform maintenance on Giant Voice and Public Address systems at both PSFB and SSFB to ensure they operate within manufacturer specifications.

• PSFB Systems: Includes Whelen E-2010 Central Control Station, CentrAlert EOS controller, UHF omni-directional antennas, and Whelen WPS-2905 voice & siren warning systems on emergency broadcast towers.

• SSFB Systems: Includes Federal Signal modular Speaker arrays, Omni-directional and Directional Speaker Arrays, Federal Central Computer Unit (CCU), SS2000+ terminal, ADHOC system, and the Valcom VCS unit for the PA system.

• Installation: Install PA systems in new or existing buildings, including speaker installation, relocation, and programming.

• Music Programming: Program music for Reveille, Retreat, and Taps at specified times on weekdays for both bases.

• Response Time: Onsite response within four (4) hours for all service calls during normal business hours.

• Reporting: Submit initial status reports within 24 hours of service calls, daily status reports for ongoing troubleshooting, and service reports within 48 hours of completion.

• Inspections: Conduct quarterly and monthly Preventative Maintenance Inspections (PMIs) for all towers and systems, submitting inspection reports within 48 hours.

• Repairs: Submit cost estimates for repairs within 24 hours of malfunction determination and complete repairs within five (5) days of parts receipt.

• Services to be performed at Peterson SFB and Schriever SFB.

• Hours of operation: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm MST, Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays.

• Safety: Contractor must maintain a safe working environment and provide a safety plan within 30 days of award, complying with OSHA, ANSI, and NFPA standards.

• Personnel: Contractor shall provide a list of personnel and a point of contact with full authority.

• Parts: Government will provide spare parts when available; contractor may assist in inventory.

• Access: Contractor employees require base access badges for PSFB and SSFB.

• Security: Compliance with physical security, traffic laws, and reporting of suspicious events is required. Possession of weapons is prohibited.

• Software: For SSFB, provide a list of required software and network diagrams.