Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL)
ID: FA8650-21-S-9307Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8650 USAF AFMC AFRL PZL AFRL/PZLWRIGHT PATTERSON AFB, OH, 45433-7541, USA

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEFENSE-RELATED ACTIVITIES; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AC33)
Timeline
    Description

    Special Notice: DEPT OF DEFENSE Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL)

    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is exploring point-to-point space transportation capability for DOD logistics. The Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL) program aims to explore the use of commercially-advertised rocket launch systems for rapid point-to-point (PTP) space transportation and agile global logistics. The goal is to field a capability that can deliver DoD cargo anywhere on the planet in less than one hour through service-type contracts similar to agreements DoD uses today with commercial airlines. Expected missions include emergency resupply, humanitarian relief, disaster relief, and routine transport of cargo to select DOD ports across the world. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems. Please refer to the Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) attachment for additional information. The ARA shall remain open until 1 July 2027.

    Point(s) of Contact
    AFRL.RS.RocketCargo@us.af.mil
    AFRL.RS.RocketCargo@us.af.mil
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    The Air Force Research Laboratory announces the Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL) program, which aims to assess the viability of commercial rocket capability for rapid point-to-point space transportation of DoD cargo. This initial Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) does not request proposals at this time, and it will remain open until July 1, 2027, with calls for proposals to be issued in the future. The total estimated program value is $250 million, with multiple agreements anticipated to support logistics operations, humanitarian relief, and emergency resupply missions.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued the Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8650-21-S-9307 for the Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL) program, which aims to explore point-to-point space transportation capabilities for the Department of Defense (DoD) using commercial rocket systems. This announcement does not request proposals at this time, but will remain open until July 1, 2027, for future Calls for Proposals to address specific logistics challenges and technology demonstrations. The total estimated program value is $250 million, with multiple agreements expected to be awarded, and all proposals must comply with various submission and eligibility requirements outlined in the announcement.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL)" to explore the use of commercial rocket systems for rapid point-to-point space transportation for DOD logistics, with the announcement open until July 1, 2027. This solicitation does not request proposals at this time; instead, individual "Calls for Proposals" will be issued with specific requirements, and the total estimated program cost is $250 million with multiple awards expected. Offerors must comply with various submission and proposal guidelines, including registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and adherence to export control laws.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is issuing a two-step solicitation for innovative designs to facilitate the reentry of 5-10 ton payloads from space using vehicle-agnostic downmass systems, with white papers being accepted from March 11, 2024, until March 31, 2027. Proposals should focus on developing thermal protection systems, reentry physics, and logistical capabilities for DOD material transport, with an anticipated award of approximately $1 million for multiple successful submissions. Offerors must follow specific submission guidelines and are encouraged to submit preliminary white papers for evaluation before formal proposals.
    The document outlines a two-step solicitation for the Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL), aimed at exploring and demonstrating point-to-point (PTP) space transportation capabilities for the Department of the Air Force. White papers are invited until June 1, 2027, with a focus on innovative solutions for integrating commercial rockets with DoD logistics for rapid cargo delivery, while addressing technical challenges and operational issues. Up to 20 awards are anticipated, each with a maximum value of approximately $25 million, and proposals must adhere to specific formatting and submission guidelines.
    The Call 002 for Point-to-Point Rocket Demonstrations aims to explore technical and operational feasibility of using commercial rockets for Department of Defense logistics, with proposals accepted from June 7, 2021, to July 1, 2027. The Department seeks innovative experiments to demonstrate cargo delivery capabilities, focusing on two main use cases: global logistics between launch pads and rapid resupply to austere locations, with an anticipated award of 2-3 contracts each valued around $10 million. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical innovation, understanding of the scope, risk management, and cost realism, with a project duration of approximately 18-33 months.
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