Space-Based Interceptors for Boost-Phase Missile Defense in the Endo-Atmospheric Region
ID: SF254-D1202Type: Phase II
Overview

Topic

Space-Based Interceptors for Boost-Phase Missile Defense in the Endo-Atmospheric Region

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: USAF

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: Phase II
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is soliciting innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) capable of conducting boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region, specifically below 120 km altitude. The initiative aims to address critical capability gaps by developing compact, high-performance platforms that enable rapid, precise, and survivable engagements from space, focusing on high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-size, weight, and power (SWaP) interceptors integrated into space vehicles. This effort is crucial for establishing a layered missile defense architecture and enhancing national security against evolving missile threats. Interested parties should prepare Direct-to-Phase-II proposals, as Phase I awards will not be made, with applications due by December 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) capable of boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative, SF254-D1202, aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms for rapid, precise, and survivable endo-atmospheric engagements from space. Key areas of focus include highly capable boosters and propulsion systems, advanced sensor suites and seekers for target discrimination in challenging environments, and integrated space vehicle architectures that meet size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints for distributed satellite constellations. The project emphasizes rapid manufacturability, miniaturization, and reduced system complexity. This effort is a direct-to-Phase II topic, requiring applicants to demonstrate prior feasibility work. Proposed solutions should advance technologies for high-performance propulsion, advanced seekers, and integrated interceptor designs, aiming for a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 6 by Phase II's end. Phase III will focus on operationalization, demonstration, and dual-use scalability, with potential for transition into government and commercial applications. The technology is restricted under ITAR/EAR.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) capable of boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative, identified as SF254-D1202, aims to close critical capability gaps by developing compact, high-performance platforms for rapid, precise, and survivable endo-atmospheric engagements from space. The effort focuses on integrating high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors into space vehicles to support fast detection-to-intercept timelines. Proposals should address highly capable boosters, advanced sensor suites for target discrimination in challenging environments, and fully integrated space vehicle and interceptor architectures suitable for distributed satellite constellations. The project emphasizes rapid manufacturability, reduced system complexity, and miniaturization for scalable deployment. This topic is intended for Direct-to-Phase II proposals, requiring applicants to demonstrate prior feasibility study accomplishments. Successful Phase II solutions will transition to Phase III for operationalization, demonstration, dual-use scalability, and potential commercialization in areas like hypersonics testing or responsive launch. The technology is restricted under ITAR, requiring disclosure of foreign national involvement.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) to enhance boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative, identified as SF254-D1202, aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms capable of rapid, precise, and survivable engagements from space. Key technology areas include high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers for target discrimination in cluttered environments, and low-SWaP (size, weight, and power) interceptors integrated into space vehicles for distributed satellite constellations. The project supports a layered missile defense architecture and national security priorities. This is a Direct-to-Phase-II effort, requiring applicants to demonstrate prior feasibility studies. Phase II focuses on developing and demonstrating these technologies, with Phase III aiming for operationalization, dual-use scalability, and commercialization. The technology is restricted under ITAR/EAR.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for Space-Based Interceptors (SBIs) capable of boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms with high-G propulsion, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors for rapid, precise, and survivable engagements. The project supports a layered missile defense architecture, focusing on scalable designs, manufacturability, miniaturization, and end-to-end system integration for distributed space-based platforms. Proposals should address highly capable boosters, advanced sensor suites for target discrimination in challenging environments, and integrated space vehicle architectures. This topic is intended for Direct-to-Phase II, requiring applicants to demonstrate feasibility and a clear plan for integration into DAF operations. Phase II will focus on developing and demonstrating these technologies, with Phase III aiming for operationalization, dual-use scalability, and commercialization. The technology is restricted under ITAR/EAR.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for Space-Based Interceptors (SBIs) to enhance boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). The objective is to develop compact, high-performance platforms with high-G propulsion, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors for rapid, precise, and survivable engagements. This initiative supports a layered missile defense architecture, emphasizing scalable designs and miniaturization. Proposals should focus on highly capable boosters, advanced sensor suites for target discrimination in cluttered environments, and integrated space vehicle architectures. Phase II will develop and demonstrate these technologies, with Phase III focusing on operationalization, dual-use applications, and transition to flight-capable prototypes.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) seeks innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) for boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms for rapid, precise, and survivable endo-atmospheric engagements from space-based assets, supporting a layered missile defense architecture. The project emphasizes high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors integrated into space vehicles for fast detection-to-intercept timelines. Proposals should focus on three key areas: highly capable boosters and propulsion systems, advanced sensor suites and seekers, and fully integrated space vehicle and interceptor architectures. This effort is restricted under ITAR/EAR. Phase I awards will not be made; applicants must demonstrate a
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) to enhance boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region. This initiative, identified as SF254-D1202, aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms capable of rapid, precise, and survivable engagements from space. Key areas of focus include high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors integrated into space vehicles, emphasizing scalability, manufacturability, and miniaturization for distributed space-based platforms. This effort supports a layered missile defense architecture to counter evolving missile threats. The project involves a Direct-to-Phase II approach, requiring applicants to demonstrate prior feasibility and a clear plan for integrating solutions with the Department of the Air Force. Phase II will focus on developing and demonstrating these technologies, while Phase III aims for operationalization, dual-use scalability, and commercialization, with strict adherence to ITAR regulations.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) to enhance boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region. This initiative aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms for rapid, precise, and survivable engagements from space. The effort focuses on three key areas: highly capable boosters and propulsion systems, advanced sensor suites and seekers, and fully integrated space vehicle and interceptor architectures. Proposed concepts should emphasize rapid manufacturability, reduced complexity, and miniaturization for scalable deployment. This project is critical for establishing a layered missile defense architecture and will involve collaboration with various stakeholders. The technology is restricted under ITAR, requiring disclosure of foreign national involvement. Phase II efforts will focus on developing and demonstrating these technologies, with a strong emphasis on transitioning successful solutions into operationalization and dual-use scalability in Phase III.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) capable of boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative, outlined in SF254-D1202, aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms for rapid, precise, and survivable endo-atmospheric engagements from space-based assets. The desired outcome is to integrate high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors into space vehicles, supporting fast detection-to-intercept timelines and a layered missile defense architecture. The project focuses on three key areas: highly capable boosters and propulsion systems, advanced sensor suites and seekers, and fully integrated space vehicle and interceptor architectures. Technologies must be rapidly manufacturable, miniaturized, and scalable for deployment in distributed satellite constellations. This effort is restricted under ITAR and EAR regulations. Phase I is omitted; proposals must demonstrate
    This U.S. Space Force initiative seeks innovative solutions for space-based endo-atmospheric interceptors to enhance missile defense. The project, a Direct-to-Phase-II effort, requires applicants to demonstrate prior feasibility study accomplishments, including stakeholder identification, integration pathways with DAF operations, and potential for use by other DoD agencies. Phase II focuses on developing technologies across three categories: high-performance propulsion and boosters, advanced seekers and target discrimination systems, and integrated space vehicle architectures. Desired propulsion characteristics include rapid thrust, large delta-v, and compact design. Seekers should be compact, resilient, and capable of multi-modal sensing and real-time data fusion under extreme conditions. Integrated solutions must combine subsystems into a low-SWaP architecture suitable for rapid manufacturing and deployment, aiming for intercept timelines under 180 seconds. Phase III emphasizes operationalization, dual-use scalability, and transition to flight-capable prototypes, exploring commercial applications in areas like hypersonics testing and responsive launch.
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) to enhance boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). The initiative aims to develop compact, high-performance platforms capable of rapid, precise, and survivable engagements from space. Key areas of focus include high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors integrated into space vehicles. This effort supports a layered missile defense architecture, emphasizing scalable designs, manufacturability, miniaturization, and end-to-end system integration for distributed space-based platforms. Proposals should address highly capable boosters, advanced sensor suites for target discrimination in cluttered environments, and fully integrated space vehicle and interceptor architectures. This is a Direct-to-Phase II topic, requiring applicants to demonstrate a
    The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for space-based interceptors (SBIs) to conduct boost-phase missile defense within the endo-atmospheric region (below 120 km altitude). This initiative aims to close critical capability gaps by developing compact, high-performance platforms for rapid, precise, and survivable endo-atmospheric engagements from space. Key areas of focus include high-G propulsion systems, advanced seekers, and low-SWaP interceptors integrated into space vehicles for fast detection-to-intercept timelines. The effort emphasizes scalable designs, manufacturability, miniaturization, and end-to-end system integration for future demonstrations on distributed space-based platforms. This topic is intended for direct-to-Phase II proposals, requiring applicants to demonstrate a
    Please provide the text you would like me to summarize.
    Similar Opportunities
    Space-Based Interceptors for Hypersonic Glide Vehicle Threats -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for the development of space-based interceptors (SBIs) designed to defeat hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) threats during their midcourse or glide phases of flight. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to establish a layered missile defense architecture that integrates advanced sensing, autonomy, and kinetic interception capabilities, focusing on compact, high-performance interceptors that can operate in extreme thermal environments and manage unpredictable trajectories. The opportunity is structured as a Direct-to-Phase II effort, requiring applicants to demonstrate prior feasibility and provide a comprehensive development timeline, with key deadlines set for proposal submission by December 31, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official solicitation portal at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Affordable IR Sensors for Proliferated LEO Missile Tracking Constellation -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for affordable midwave infrared (MWIR) sensor technologies aimed at enhancing missile detection and tracking capabilities in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The primary objective is to develop a complete sensor prototype that demonstrates high sensitivity to missile plumes, radiation tolerance for extended LEO operations, and compatibility with small satellite platforms, all while achieving significant cost reductions through innovative materials and manufacturing processes. This initiative is critical for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) and other next-generation missile warning constellations, ensuring effective defense against advanced missile threats. Interested parties should note that this is a Direct-to-Phase-II effort, with proposals due by December 31, 2025, and must demonstrate prior feasibility studies and a clear plan for integration with U.S. Department of Air Force operations.
    Technology Maturation to Support Commercial De-Orbit as a Service for pLEO Constellations -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for the development of commercial De-Orbit as a Service (DaaS) capabilities aimed at managing proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) satellite constellations. The primary objective is to mature key technologies that facilitate safe and scalable satellite disposal mechanisms, particularly for satellites that encounter mission-ending anomalies and cannot autonomously de-orbit. This initiative is crucial for establishing a commercially sustainable DaaS market, reducing technical and operational risks, and laying the groundwork for future demonstration missions. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on December 10, 2025, with proposals due by December 31, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Integrated S&T Insight and Co-Investment Decision Support Platform -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions for the development of an Integrated Science and Technology (S&T) Insight and Co-Investment Decision Support Platform, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Task Force Futures (TF-F) and other USSF stakeholders. The platform is intended to provide a secure, modular, and user-centric system that offers comprehensive visibility into the industry and investment ecosystem, focusing on S&T capabilities, capital flow patterns, and innovation trends relevant to future space operations. This initiative is critical for improving the alignment of research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) priorities with commercial innovation, reducing inefficiencies, and strengthening institutional knowledge for data-informed co-investment strategies. Interested parties should note that this is a Direct-to-Phase II (D2P2) effort, requiring prior feasibility work, with proposals due by December 31, 2025. For more information, applicants can visit the official solicitation page at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Secure Multi-Source Data Fusion Environment for pLEO Constellations -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for a Secure Multi-Source Data Fusion Environment tailored for proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) constellations. The objective is to develop an adaptable software platform capable of ingesting, integrating, and analyzing high-volume, low-latency data from diverse space-based sources, enhancing real-time situational awareness and mission adaptability for the Department of Defense’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). This initiative is critical for enabling automated decision-making and timely execution of operations, supporting the USSF's goal of improving data-to-decision agility and operational responsiveness. Interested parties must prepare Direct-to-Phase II proposals, demonstrating a completed feasibility study and a clear integration plan with Department of Air Force operations, with the application deadline set for December 31, 2025.
    Adaptive and Intelligent Space (AIS) -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF) is seeking innovative solutions through its Adaptive and Intelligent Space (AIS) Challenge, aimed at enhancing autonomous, resilient, and intelligent space operations across various orbital environments, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Geostationary Orbit (GEO), eXtended GEO (XGEO), and cislunar space. The primary objective of this initiative is to explore emerging technical concepts that address foundational gaps in space asset management under contested and communication-degraded conditions, with a focus on edge computing, sensor payloads, and spacecraft bus design. This opportunity is critical for advancing the USSF's capabilities in space domain awareness and battle management, ultimately supporting national security objectives. Interested parties must submit their proposals by December 31, 2025, with a Phase I emphasis on feasibility studies and collaboration with research institutions, leading to potential Phase II prototype development.
    Knowledge-Guided Test and Evaluation Frameworks for proliferated Low Earth Orbit Constellations -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force, through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for a knowledge-guided test and evaluation framework tailored for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), a rapidly evolving constellation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The objective is to develop an adaptive test-planning capability that continuously updates system performance, quantifies knowledge gain against resource costs, and dynamically re-plans test sequences to prioritize high-utility activities, utilizing probabilistic reasoning and integrating both synthetic and live test data. This initiative is critical for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of test campaigns in support of SDA's agile acquisition model, with Phase I being a direct-to-Phase II proposal process requiring a feasibility study. The opportunity is set to open for applications on December 10, 2025, with a closing date of December 31, 2025, and interested parties can find more information at the provided source link.
    Pulsed High-power Laser Accelerators to Study radiation Hardening (PHLASH) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, through DARPA, is seeking proposals for the Pulsed High-power Laser Accelerators to Study Radiation Hardening (PHLASH) program, which aims to develop a compact, scalable laser driver for electron beam generation to enhance radiation testing of microelectronic systems intended for space applications. The primary objective is to demonstrate a prototype laser driver capable of generating 50-MeV electron beam energies at a pulse repetition rate exceeding 100 Hz, with a design that can be scaled to 100 GeV at 1 kHz, all within a compact footprint of less than 250 m³. This initiative addresses the limitations of existing heavy-ion accelerator facilities by leveraging Laser Wakefield Acceleration (LWFA) technology, which allows for high-energy electron packet generation over significantly shorter distances. Proposals are due by December 31, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the official solicitation link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Acoustic-based UAS Rainbow Oscillation Refraction Architecture (AURORA) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Special Operations Command (SOCOM), is seeking innovative research and development proposals for the Acoustic-based UAS Rainbow Oscillation Refraction Architecture (AURORA) under the SBIR program. The objective is to create an acoustic-based communication system that enables small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) within a swarm to communicate and determine their relative positions using sound generated by their propellers as a carrier wave. This technology is crucial for military applications where multiple drones operate in close proximity without relying on GPS or radio frequencies, enhancing their operational effectiveness and safety. Interested parties should prepare to submit their proposals by December 31, 2025, with the feasibility study phase (Phase I) focusing on system design options and achievable data rates, followed by prototype development in Phase II. For more details, visit the solicitation agency's website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Novel Technologies for CWMD and Related Threats - Open Topic -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative solutions through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop novel technologies for detecting radiological and nuclear threats without the use of specialized sensors. The objective is to utilize signals from existing general-purpose military hardware, commercially available devices, and public data sources to enhance the detection capabilities for weapons of mass destruction (WMD). This initiative is crucial for overcoming the challenges associated with the high costs and lengthy timelines of developing new military hardware for WMD detection. The project is structured in three phases: Phase I focuses on identifying feasible use cases and developing a course of action; Phase II involves building and testing a model or prototype; and Phase III aims to refine the technology for broader dual-use applications in defense, government, and commercial sectors. The solicitation is currently in pre-release status, with an open date set for December 10, 2025, and a close date of December 31, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the DOD SBIR website.