REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: Missile Defense System-Next

Amendment / Modification

This document is Amendment 2 to a Request for Information (RFI) concerning the Missile Defense System - Next (MDS-Next) Capability Solutions for Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas.

This amendment does not explicitly state which sections of the original RFI are modified. However, it provides updated information and clarifies the process for requesting resources and submitting white papers.

• Resource Access Deadline: Requests for access to the Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas briefing, MDS-Next Characteristics briefing, and 1:1 technical exchanges must be received by MDA no later than 1200 CST on May 14, 2026.
• White Paper Submission Deadline: White papers must be received by MDA no later than 2359 CST on May 15, 2026.
• 1:1 Technical Exchange: Anticipated between April 27, 2026, and May 22, 2026. Exchanges after May 15, 2026, will be for informational purposes only.
• Submission Format: White papers are limited to a maximum of 5 pages. No prescribed format, clarity of thought and reasoning are valued over presentation style.

Amendment / Modification

This document is Amendment 1 to a Request for Information (RFI) concerning "Capability Solutions for Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas" for the Missile Defense System - Next (MDS-Next).

This amendment does not appear to modify specific sections of the original RFI but rather provides updated information and clarifies the purpose and scope of the RFI.

• The RFI seeks solution-oriented information describing specific capability approaches and architectural concepts that advance identified Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas.
• Responses should focus on capability-level approaches and architectural concepts that align with the thrust areas, address the 2035+ projected threat environment, and demonstrate potential to improve operational effectiveness.
• Submissions should be concise pitch papers addressing:
  • Strategic Architecture Thrust Area Alignment
  • Capability Approach
  • Operational Impact
  • Technical Feasibility and Maturity
  • Cost Considerations
  • Integration Considerations
  • Small Business Considerations
• White papers are due by 1200 CST on 15 May 2026.
• Resources available include briefings (SECRET and CUI levels) and 1:1 technical exchanges. Requests for these resources must be submitted by 1200 CST on 1 May 2026.

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI seeks solution-oriented information to inform the Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) strategic planning effort for future capability development and investment opportunities in response to the projected 2035+ threat environment. The MDA is identifying "Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas" as priority focus areas for advancing missile defense capabilities. This RFI transitions from identifying these areas to evaluating solution approaches that can advance them, with responses informing prioritization and potential Program Objective Memorandum (POM) investment decisions.

Respondents are encouraged to propose fundamentally different capability constructs, architectures, or operational concepts, not just incremental improvements. Submissions should focus on capability-level approaches and architectural concepts that:

• Directly align to one or more identified Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas.
• Address challenges posed by the 2035+ projected threat environment.
• Demonstrate potential to improve operational effectiveness.

Submissions should clearly describe:

• The proposed capability or architectural concept and its function.

• How it operates within the broader system.

• Whether it represents a new or alternative way to achieve mission outcomes.

• How it differs from or improves upon current/planned capabilities.

• Estimated timeline for initial operational fielding, including key milestones.

• Applicability across multiple mission areas or threat sets.

• Integration with existing and planned missile defense architectures.

• Submissions must be concise pitch papers.

• Responses must clearly align to one or more Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas.

• Avoid general descriptions, marketing material, or platform-centric responses.

• Key elements to address include:

  • Strategic Architecture Thrust Area Alignment
  • Capability Approach
  • Operational Impact
  • Technical Feasibility and Maturity (including TRL)
  • Cost Considerations (ROM estimate)
  • Integration Considerations
  • Small Business Considerations (if applicable)

• White papers are limited to a maximum of 5 pages.

• Submission Deadline: 11 May 2026, 1200 CST.

• Responses will be reviewed to identify Technology Areas for further examination and inform prioritization. Submissions will be discussed as part of a requested 1:1 technical exchange.

• The government is seeking to understand the capability of small businesses to contribute to the Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas and to inform potential future acquisition strategies. Small businesses are requested to describe their relevant capabilities, unique contributions, and role in teaming arrangements.

• Access to "Strategic Architecture Thrust Areas briefing" (SECRET level) and "MDS-Next Characteristics briefing" (CUI level) is available upon request. Contact mda.mbx.sppa@mail.mil.

• 1:1 technical exchanges with MDA subject matter experts are anticipated between 27 April 2026 and 15 May 2026.

• Submission of information is voluntary and does not constitute a commitment by the Agency to award a contract or reimburse costs.