Space Vehicle Upper Stage Request for Information
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 Systems Command (SSC), specifically Space Combat Power, is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) for Space Vehicle Upper Stage solutions. The goal is to identify emerging launch systems that can rapidly place space vehicles (2946-6000 kg) into Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO) from Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), leveraging the flexibility of commercially available launch services. This RFI is for market research purposes only. Responses are due May 15, 2026.
Purpose & Background
SSC's Space Combat Power mission areas require assured access to space for rapid fielding and replenishment of space systems, particularly those in GEO. Current electric propulsion solutions for GTO to GEO transfer are too slow for their mission needs. This RFI seeks solutions that minimize transfer time while integrating with commercial launch options, primarily those to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Technical Requirements
Respondents should provide detailed technical capabilities for LEO to GEO orbit raising solutions for masses between 2946 kg and 6000 kg. Information requested includes:
- Mass/C.G. curve of the overall stack.
- Description and figures of the solution.
- SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power) characteristics and environmental compliance.
- Ease of integration with ESPA compliant host rings and launch vehicles.
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL).
- Block diagrams, key components, and sources.
- Identification of critical path/long lead items.
- Anticipated schedule from ATP to delivery, including key milestones.
- Total Program Cost, broken down into NRE Phase 1 (ATP-CDR), NRE Phase 2 (CDR-1st article delivery), and RE Phase (additional units, QTY 20).
Business & Contracting Information
Respondents are also asked to provide:
- Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) pricing.
- Available contract vehicles.
- Estimated production lead times.
- Intellectual property/licensing considerations.
Response Instructions
Responses must be prepared in Word (.docx) or Adobe (.pdf), using Times New Roman 12pt font (or larger), single-spaced, with 1-inch margins. The page limit is 10 pages, excluding the cover page and Attachment 1. A cover sheet with project title, company name, product name(s), point of contact, and submission date is required. All responses must include a completed Attachment 1: Orbit Raising Response Matrix.
Submissions are to be made via DoD SAFE (http://safe.apps.mil) to heeyeun.joo.1@spaceforce.mil, kevin.boyle.12.ctr@spaceforce.mil, and devan.shivers@spaceforce.mil. The encryption key is "DueDate051520261200PM." An email notification (without attachments) must be sent after submission with the subject line: "Response to FA8819-RFI-SVUpperStage."
Key Dates & Contacts
- Questions Due: April 15, 2026, 12:00 PM PDT
- Responses Due: May 15, 2026, 12:00 PM PDT
- Primary Contact: Heeyeun Joo (heeyeun.joo.1@spaceforce.mil)
- Secondary Contact: Devan Shivers (devan.shivers@spaceforce.mil)
Disclaimer
This RFI is for market research and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract. The government will not reimburse costs incurred in responding. Non-government personnel may assist in reviewing responses under appropriate Non-Disclosure Agreements.