Air Force Research Laboratory B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demonstration
ID: FA2541-25-013Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA2541 SSC COMRCL SVS OFC SSC CMKCHANTILLY, VA, 20151, USA

NAICS

Satellite Telecommunications (517410)

PSC

IT and Telecom - Network: Satellite Communications and Telecom Access Services (DG11)

Set Aside

No Set aside used (NONE)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/081e733c29a94a6b98b09d3515e3944a/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory, is seeking industry feedback for the B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demonstration, which aims to acquire commercial satellite communication services, specifically 5 MHz of Ka-band capacity and associated ground station services. This initiative is crucial for facilitating waveform testing scheduled between August and October 2025, with a focus on encrypted messaging and situational awareness functionalities. Interested vendors are encouraged to submit their qualifications and capabilities by July 30, 2025, as responses will inform the acquisition strategy; however, no financial compensation will be provided for submissions. For further inquiries, vendors may contact John Seacrist at john.seacrist@spaceforce.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    John Seacrist
    john.seacrist@spaceforce.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demo_Draft Technical Specification.xlsx
    The document outlines technical specifications for a satellite communication terminal, specifically the GetSat Slingblade Ka LW, located at coordinates 40.79N / 111.97W. The terminal supports one unit and has restrictions on terminal look angles while operating in the Ka frequency band. Its capabilities include a mobile antenna designed for circular polarization with a 4-port feed assembly and auto-tracking features. The document details transmission (TX) and reception (RX) frequency ranges, modem specifications by L3Harris (model RASOR), and various Eb/No values applicable to different modulation schemes, establishing expected bit error rates. Data link connectivity is described, indicating multiple throughput terminals connecting to commercial teleports in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, with a target availability of 99.5%. Operational time frames for various links stretch from August 2025 to October 2025. The information reflects the government's interest in acquiring advanced satellite communication systems, as outlined in RFPs, emphasizing technical performance, operational readiness, and the collaboration with technology vendors in defense and telecommunications sectors.
    B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demo_QA.xlsx
    The government document addresses a Request for Information (RFI) related to bandwidth procurement for communication systems. It specifies a requirement of 5 MHz for both the Forward and Return Direction, confirming that the scope is limited to Geostationary Orbit (GEO) options, excluding Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The primary applications for the data link include encrypted messaging and situational awareness functionalities. The document indicates that link budgets have been developed for various locations, ensuring that the 5 MHz bandwidth will suffice for the required data rates. Additionally, the government plans to procure needed bandwidth and gateway services possibly through a CTC or CSS contract, rather than leveraging existing GSA contracts. The insights collected underline the government's strategic approach to ensure effective communication capabilities through precise bandwidth requirements and defined procurement methods.
    FA2541-25-013_B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demo_RFI.pdf
    The U.S. Government, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting industry feedback for a upcoming requirement concerning the B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demonstration. This initiative aims to acquire commercial satellite communication, including Ka-band satellite capacity and ground station services, to facilitate waveform testing scheduled between August and October 2025. The Government seeks detailed responses from vendors capable of providing the specified services, emphasizing clarity and adherence to provided questions. Vendors must indicate their qualifications, capabilities, and any potential limitations in meeting the outlined requirements. Alongside general company information, the Government encourages responses addressing suitable contract vehicles and small business compliance with subcontracting limits. Responses are required by July 30, 2025, and will be evaluated to shape the acquisition strategy. This document underscores the Government's transparency in market research, aiming to refine the forthcoming solicitation process while also clarifying that no financial compensation for responses will be provided. Questions are to be submitted in writing, ensuring an organized communication process throughout this RFI phase.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Air Force Research Laboratory B-52 Hybrid SATCOM Demonstration
    Currently viewing
    Sources Sought
    Similar Opportunities
    USSF COMSATCOM Forecast to Industry Future Requirements Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 (May 2025)
    Dept Of Defense
    The United States Space Force (USSF) is preparing to issue Requests for Proposals (RFP) for Commercial Satellite Communications (COMSATCOM) services for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The anticipated procurement will focus on three primary service categories: COMSATCOM Transponded Capacity (CTC), COMSATCOM Subscription Services (CSS), and Complex Commercial SATCOM Solutions (CS3), which are essential for supporting military operations through satellite bandwidth leasing and custom solutions. The projected lifecycle values for these contracts range from under $300,000 to approximately $905 million, with specific projects including Ku Band and C Band bandwidth for range testing and high-throughput services for data applications. Interested parties should note that the timeline for anticipated RFQ releases is from June to December 2025, with awards expected in late 2025 and early 2026. For further inquiries, contact John Seacrist at john.seacrist@spaceforce.mil.
    USSF Commercial Satellite Communications (COMSATCOM) Forecast to Industry Future Requirements Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026
    Dept Of Defense
    The United States Space Force (USSF) is preparing to issue potential Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for Commercial Satellite Communications (COMSATCOM) services for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The procurement will focus on acquiring satellite communication services, including Transponded Capacity, Subscription Services, and Complex Commercial SATCOM Solutions, to enhance the operational capabilities of the Department of Defense. This initiative is critical for maintaining effective communication infrastructure and adapting to emerging technology needs across military operations, with anticipated projects such as the USAFRICOM COMSATCOM Services Blanket Purchase Agreement valued between $215 million and $225 million. Interested industry stakeholders can contact John Seacrist at john.seacrist@spaceforce.mil for further information, with the attachment detailing requirements current as of December 2024.
    Operational Support Airlift/Executive Airlift Combined Commercial Satellite Communications Services
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking to award a sole source contract for Operational Support Airlift/Executive Airlift Combined Commercial Satellite Communications Services. This contract aims to provide global communications connectivity for U.S. Senior Leaders aboard the OSA/EA fleet, which includes aircraft such as the VC-25A/B and C-32A, among others. The services are critical for supporting high-level government officials, including the President and Secretary of Defense, during their operations. The contract is set for a duration of two years and seven months, from April 1, 2026, to October 31, 2028, with a small business size standard of $44 million under NAICS code 517410. Interested parties can direct inquiries to John Seacrist at john.seacrist@spaceforce.mil or Karla Delaney at karla.delaney@spaceforce.mil.
    Save the Date: Strategic SATCOM Virtual Kick Off
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is hosting a Strategic SATCOM Virtual Kick Off on January 8, 2026, aimed at engaging industry partners in showcasing potential Strategic SATCOM prototypes for various applications. This event will provide an overview of timelines for whitepaper requests and the Reverse Industry Day, which is scheduled for March 23-24, 2026, at the SATShow Conference in Washington D.C., allowing industry representatives to directly understand the government's challenges and needs. The opportunity is particularly relevant for defense contractors and technology companies specializing in space, communications, and intelligence domains. Interested parties must register for the virtual kick-off by January 5, 2026, and can direct inquiries to Captain Gerald Hills and Ms. Caroline Chewning at SYD88.SX.RID@spaceforce.mil.
    AERIAL LAYER NETWORKING & TRANSMISSION TECHNOLOGIES
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is seeking innovative solutions through its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7002 for Aerial Layer Networking & Transmission Technologies. The objective is to advance current aerial network systems from a pre-planned, limited interoperability state to a more dynamic, self-forming, and self-healing architecture, focusing on areas such as network monitoring, robust aerial networks, and proof-of-concept capabilities. This initiative is critical for enhancing military operations and ensuring effective communication in aerial environments. The total funding available for this BAA is approximately $99.5 million, with individual awards typically ranging from $1 million to $10 million over a period of 36 months, and potential awards up to $49.5 million. Interested parties must submit white papers by September 30, 2027, with suggested submission dates for each fiscal year, and can direct inquiries to Peter Fitzgerald at peter.fitzgerald.1@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil.
    Commercial Solutions Opening for Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force's Architecture and Integration Directorate (AFLCMC/XA), is seeking innovative solutions through its Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) for Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2). The objective is to enhance capabilities related to aerial communications and networking systems, focusing on Software Programmable Open Mission Systems Compliant (SPOC) Multi-Function Processors (MFPs) that support the Department of the Air Force's Battle Management Network. This initiative is critical for developing scalable, resilient, and open-architecture solutions that can operate effectively in various operational environments. Interested vendors must submit White Papers by April 9, 2024, detailing their proposed solutions, with potential contract awards anticipated by August 2, 2024. For inquiries, contact Capt Alexandra Hutchinson or Mr. Chhunheng Phay.
    RFI - Enhanced Data Rate (SEDR) Waveform onto Operational Radios
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), is seeking qualified vendors to assist in porting the Enhanced Data Rate (SEDR) waveform onto operational radios. This Request for Information (RFI) aims to identify vendors with the necessary technical expertise to implement the SEDR waveform, which includes obtaining required certifications such as NSA Type-1 for COMSEC and ensuring airworthiness for the radios used. The successful integration of this waveform is crucial for enhancing communication capabilities within military operations. Interested vendors must submit a Statement of Interest by December 19, 2025, detailing their qualifications and experience, with questions due by November 21, 2025. For further inquiries, vendors can contact Aidan Nugent at aidan.nugent@us.af.mil or Alexandra Hutchinson at Alexandra.Hutchinson.1@us.af.mil.
    Digital Intermediate Frequency System
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Product Manager Wideband Enterprise Satellite Systems (PdM WESS), is seeking information from qualified systems integrators for a Digital Intermediate Frequency (Digital IF) solution to be implemented across up to 18 SATCOM teleport sites worldwide. The primary objectives include establishing a flexible, modular Digital IF architecture that ensures interoperability, supports Wideband Global System (WGS) operations, and enables automated management and control of the system. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the resilience and scalability of the DoD's SATCOM ground segment infrastructure. Interested vendors must submit their responses, including company details and capabilities, by December 19, 2025, to the designated contacts, Keith Magaw and Kristin Dacey, via the provided email addresses.
    RECEIVER TRANSMITTER
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency, is seeking proposals for the procurement of Receiver Transmitters, specifically for the B-2 aircraft. This contract involves the supply of 14 units of the Receiver Transmitter, which facilitates two-way voice communication between the aircraft and other vehicles or surface stations, and is constructed from metal alloy with electronic components. Interested vendors should note that the estimated issue date for the Request for Proposal (RFP SPRTA1-26-R-0134) is December 26, 2025, with a closing date of January 26, 2026, and inquiries can be directed to Michael Hannan at Michael.Hannan.1@us.af.mil or by phone at 385-591-3092. The contract will not be set aside for small businesses, and all proposals must be submitted within 45 days of the notice publication.
    RFI for Ground Bounce NaaS
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the United States Space Force Space Systems Command (USSF SSC), is seeking information from contractors regarding a Request for Information (RFI) for Network as a Service (NaaS) to support its Ground Bounce (GB) Project. The objective is to establish a secure, private transport network utilizing commercial proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) satellites, such as Starlink, to enhance connectivity for government end-user systems globally. This initiative is crucial for ensuring resilient and augmented communication capabilities, with a projected support for eight ground bounce locations and potential for future expansion based on funding availability. Interested contractors must submit a white paper and a PowerPoint presentation detailing their proposed solutions by December 12, 2025, with inquiries directed to Tobias Richards at tobias.richards.1@spaceforce.mil or Victor Vizcarra at victor.vizcarra.1.ctr@spaceforce.mil.