REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: Missile Defense System-Next

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.