Captive Carry External Space Enabled Antenna/Transponder for Existing Interceptors
ID: MDA25B-T007Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Captive Carry External Space Enabled Antenna/Transponder for Existing Interceptors

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: MDA

Program

Type: STTRPhase: BOTH
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), is seeking innovative solutions for a captive carry external antenna/transponder that will enable existing Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors to communicate with the Space Layer. The objective is to develop a device that can receive communications in the Ka band from space and convert them to X band for the interceptor, while also allowing for reverse communication, all while being self-sustaining for 15 years. This technology is crucial for enhancing the interceptor's capabilities and ensuring effective communication with space assets. The solicitation is set to open on April 23, 2025, with proposals due by May 21, 2025, and interested parties can find more information at the provided source link.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Similar Opportunities
    Space-Based Firing Solutions -
    DOD
    The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is seeking innovative small businesses to develop advanced firing solution technologies for missile defense in the space domain under the SBIR program. The objective is to enhance missile defense capabilities through improved firing solution architectures, sensor data fusion algorithms, and target discrimination techniques, which are critical for defending the United States and its allies from missile threats. This opportunity is particularly significant as it aims to advance disruptive technologies necessary for effective missile defense operations in contested environments. Proposals are due by July 23, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the official SBIR website at https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12181.
    Real-Time Detection and Tracking of High-Velocity Atmospheric Transits -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Space Force (USSF), is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of a real-time detection and tracking system for high-velocity atmospheric transits. The objective is to create a hardware and/or software tool capable of detecting, tracking, and predicting the trajectory of objects transiting the upper atmosphere at altitudes of 200–400 km, particularly those traveling at suborbital or space-capable velocities. This initiative addresses critical gaps in Space Domain Awareness (SDA) as emerging threats, such as hypersonic glide vehicles and suborbital missiles, challenge existing detection systems. Interested parties must submit proposals by August 20, 2025, with the opportunity to advance directly to Phase II of the program, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Integration of Wave Relay API Features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative software solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to integrate Wave Relay API features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software. The primary objective is to enhance local positioning capabilities for uncrewed and worn sensors during tactical operations by leveraging RF signal information, ensuring accuracy within 1 meter in a 300-meter by 300-meter area without GPS reliance, particularly in low-light conditions. This technology is crucial for improving the reliability of positioning solutions in GPS-denied environments, especially for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) sensor operations. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on June 25, 2025, with applications due by July 23, 2025, and can find more information at the DOD SBIR website.
    Lightweight Space Based Propulsion Technology for High Acceleration -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, through the Missile Defense Agency, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) topic titled "Lightweight Space Based Propulsion Technology for High Acceleration." The objective is to develop advanced propulsion technologies for lightweight systems used in space-based interceptors, specifically focusing on axial systems and divert and attitude control systems (DACS) that can withstand the harsh conditions of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for a minimum of five years. This initiative is crucial for enhancing missile defense capabilities and may involve innovative solutions that improve upon existing hydrazine-based propulsion systems or introduce disruptive new technologies. Proposals are due by July 23, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the official SBIR website.
    Real-Time Detection and Tracking of High-Velocity Atmospheric Transits -
    DOD
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) is seeking innovative hardware and/or software solutions for the real-time detection and tracking of high-velocity atmospheric transits, specifically targeting objects in the upper atmosphere at altitudes of 200–400 km. The objective is to develop a system capable of automatically detecting, tracking, and predicting the trajectory of these objects, which may include hypersonic glide vehicles and suborbital missiles, while integrating seamlessly with existing Space Domain Awareness (SDA) toolchains. This initiative is critical for enhancing national security and operational readiness against emerging threats, with a focus on leveraging data-driven technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Interested parties should prepare proposals for Phase II, as Phase I awards will not be made for this topic, with applications due by August 20, 2025. For more information, visit the official solicitation page at DOD SBIR/STTR.
    Integration of Wave Relay API Features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software) -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative software solutions to integrate the Persistent Systems Wave Relay API features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software. The primary objective is to enhance local positioning capabilities for uncrewed and worn sensors during tactical operations by fusing RF signal data with existing inertial and visual tracking technologies, particularly in GPS-denied environments. This integration is crucial for improving the accuracy and reliability of positioning for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) sensors in complex operational scenarios. Interested parties must submit their proposals by July 23, 2025, with the opportunity encompassing both Phase I and Phase II development stages, as outlined in the solicitation documents available at the provided source link.
    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/.
    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 objective is to create a low-cost, expendable release mechanism that is compatible with various cargo container providers, facilitating rapid payload integration and operational agility for space missions. This initiative is critical as it supports the U.S. Space Force's goals for efficient global mobility through modular and affordable systems, ultimately reducing lifecycle costs and increasing mission flexibility. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is open from July 2, 2025, to August 20, 2025, with proposals required to demonstrate prior relevant work and feasibility in alignment with Department of the Air Force operational needs. For more details, visit the official solicitation page at https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12156.
    Open Topic 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 inviting proposals for the Open Topic Phase I Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions that address specific stakeholder needs. This initiative aims to adapt non-defense commercial solutions to meet the requirements of the Space Force, focusing on areas such as Space Domain Awareness, Satellite Communications, and Cyberspace Operations, among others. The program seeks innovative technologies that can transition into the USSF, with an emphasis on feasibility studies and prototype development under accelerated timelines. Proposals are due by August 5, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit applications through the official solicitation link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Affordable Thermal Protection Solution (ARMREST) -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking innovative solutions for affordable Thermal Protection Solutions (TPS) aimed at enhancing Rocket Cargo materiel transport missions, particularly for payloads in the 1 to 10 metric ton range. The objective is to develop low-cost, expendable external TPS or internal thermal management systems that ensure payload survivability during atmospheric reentry, avoiding the complexities and high costs associated with human-rated systems. This initiative is crucial for reshaping the industrial base towards cost-effective thermal protection technologies, facilitating rapid and efficient transport of materials for military and commercial applications. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the DOD SBIR website, with the solicitation set to open on July 23, 2025, and applications due by August 20, 2025.