Project ASTROPAC: Intelligent Cargo Configuration and Deployment Planning for Enhanced Readiness
ID: SF254-D1001Type: Phase II
Overview

Topic

Project ASTROPAC: Intelligent Cargo Configuration and Deployment Planning for Enhanced Readiness

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: USAF

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: Phase II

Topic Link

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/

Additional Information

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Space Force (USSF), is seeking innovative solutions through the SBIR program for the development of an AI-enabled software tool aimed at optimizing cargo packing, configuration, and deployment planning. The objective is to enhance operational readiness by significantly reducing packing time and errors, optimizing spatial usage and weight distribution, and integrating maintenance and load planning considerations into the cargo configuration process. This initiative is critical for improving the efficiency of logistics operations, particularly in contested or communications-degraded environments, thereby supporting rapid response to crises and mission requirements. The solicitation is currently in the pre-release phase, with proposals due by August 20, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    PDF.html
    Please provide the text you would like summarized.
    Similar Opportunities
    Virtual Space Cargo Deployment Function for AI-Driven Logistics Planning and Simulation -
    DOD
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking proposals for the development of a Virtual Space Cargo Deployment Function (VS-CDF), an advanced digital twin platform designed to enhance logistics planning and simulation for space operations. The objective is to create an AI-enabled environment that supports real-time planning, optimization, and visualization of cargo deployment, addressing the complexities of space logistics and improving mission readiness. This initiative is critical for ensuring agile and efficient logistics operations in contested environments, aligning with the USSF's Mission Sustainment Strategy. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on July 23, 2025, with proposals due by August 20, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Autonomous Space Cargo Network (ASCN): AI-Driven Logistics Automation and Digital Twin Integration for Space Mobility -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop an Autonomous Space Cargo Network (ASCN) that integrates AI-driven logistics automation and digital twin technology for enhanced space mobility. The primary objective is to create a system that modernizes cargo handling and logistics operations at the Space Joint Movement Complex (SJMC), improving operational efficiency, accuracy, and resilience in both contested and commercial environments. This initiative is crucial for establishing a scalable, cybersecure logistics framework that supports U.S. Space Force sustainment strategies and future space missions. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on July 23, 2025, with applications due by August 20, 2025, and can find more information at the official SBIR website.
    Quantum for Space Logistics Demand Planning & Optimization -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) and the U.S. Space Force (USSF) are seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to enhance logistics planning and optimization in space environments. The primary objective is to explore the feasibility of applying Quantum Machine Learning (QML) and Quantum Optimization (QO) techniques to improve demand forecasting, routing, and scheduling for logistics operations across terrestrial and space domains. This initiative is crucial for addressing the complexities of modern logistics, particularly as missions expand to include rapid orbital resupply and interplanetary operations. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on July 23, 2025, with applications due by August 20, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Autonomous Modular Material Handling Equipment for Space Logistics Operations -
    DOD
    The U.S. Department of Defense, through the U.S. Space Force (USSF) and Space Systems Command (SSC), is seeking proposals for the development of an Autonomous Modular Material Handling Equipment (MHE) system designed for space logistics operations. This initiative aims to create a rugged, modular, and air-transportable MHE capable of autonomously or semi-autonomously loading, moving, and unloading heavy military cargo in austere environments, thereby enhancing logistics agility and mission responsiveness. The project is critical for supporting expeditionary space logistics missions and will involve testing prototypes at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Vandenberg Space Force Base. The solicitation is set to open on July 23, 2025, with proposals due by August 20, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Project SpaceKnight: Interactive AI Simulation for USSF Space Sustainment and Contested Logistics Wargaming -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for Project SpaceKnight, an interactive AI simulation aimed at enhancing training for space sustainment and logistics in contested environments. The primary objective is to develop a proof-of-concept AI-driven strategy game that simulates logistics planning, incorporating realistic constraints such as orbital mechanics and adversarial disruptions, to prepare Guardians and logistics planners for complex space missions. This opportunity is critical for advancing training methodologies in space logistics, with a focus on creating a minimal viable simulation environment during Phase I, followed by a fully operational platform in Phase II. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on July 23, 2025, with applications due by August 20, 2025, and can find more information at the official SBIR website.
    Affordable Release Mechanism (ARM) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for the development of an Affordable Release Mechanism (ARM) aimed at enhancing Rocket Cargo materiel transport missions. The primary objective is to create a low-cost, expendable release mechanism that is compatible with various cargo container providers, facilitating rapid payload integration and turnaround for military operations. This initiative is crucial for improving the agility and efficiency of materiel transport, particularly as the U.S. Space Force explores advanced mobility options through suborbital or orbital reentry. Interested parties should note that the opportunity is currently in the pre-release phase, with the solicitation expected to open on July 23, 2025, and applications due by August 20, 2025. For more information, please visit the official source link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Low-Cost, Expendable, Launch-Agnostic Space Separation System -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for a low-cost, expendable, launch-agnostic space separation system through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to develop a separation system that minimizes costs while ensuring reliability and quality, utilizing simple designs that may incorporate mechanical, electrical, explosive, or other non-traditional methods. This initiative aims to enhance Rocket Cargo materiel transport missions by improving payload deployment post-atmospheric reentry, particularly for payloads ranging from 1 to 10 metric tons. Interested parties should prepare to submit proposals by August 20, 2025, with the opportunity opening on July 23, 2025, and further details available at the provided source link.
    Project AXIS 54: AI-Enabled Framework for Space Sustainment Technology Prioritization -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking proposals for Project AXIS 54, an initiative aimed at developing an AI-enabled framework for prioritizing space sustainment technologies. The objective is to create a scalable decision-support toolkit that enhances the assessment and alignment of emerging technologies with mission objectives, thereby reducing transition friction and accelerating the delivery of impactful capabilities. This project is crucial for improving the operational readiness and sustainment of the U.S. Space Force (USSF) by providing structured tools for capability developers and acquisition teams. Interested parties should note that the solicitation will open on July 23, 2025, with proposals due by August 20, 2025, and can find more information at the official DoD SBIR website.
    Phase I Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Space Force Stakeholder Need -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, through the United States Space Force (USSF), is seeking innovative defense-related dual-purpose technologies and solutions that address specific stakeholder needs as part of its Phase I SBIR program. The primary objective is to explore and develop commercial technologies that can fulfill requirements, close capability gaps, and provide technological advancements applicable to both defense and non-defense markets. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the USSF's operational capabilities across various mission areas, including Space Domain Awareness, Satellite Communications, and Cyberspace Operations, among others. Interested parties must submit their proposals by August 5, 2025, with further details available at the provided source link.
    Project KARMEN: Rapid-Turnaround Spacelift Cargo Test Platform for Empirical Qualification -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking proposals for the development of the KARMEN project, a rapid-turnaround spacelift cargo test platform designed for empirical qualification of various supplies and materials under actual spacelift conditions. The objective is to create a reusable, modular test platform capable of simulating suborbital flight environments, collecting high-fidelity data on cargo behavior, and supporting rapid testing cycles to enhance mission readiness and logistics efficiency for both military and commercial applications. This initiative addresses a critical gap in current cargo qualification methods, which rely heavily on ground-based simulations, and aims to validate cargo performance in realistic conditions, thereby reducing risks and improving operational logistics. Interested parties should prepare to submit their proposals by August 20, 2025, with the solicitation number SF254-D1002 available for further details at the provided source link.