DIU, US Space Force Seek Rapidly Deployable Satellites

The Defense Innovation Unit, in partnership with the Space Force’s Space Safari acquisition program office, is soliciting proposals to prototype and demonstrate on-orbit tactically responsive space systems.

According to the solicitation, the DIU is interested in TacRS capabilities that can enable satellite launch within 24 hours of notice; characterization of on-orbit threats within 48 hours of the satellite reaching orbit; and rendezvous, proximity operations and docking with other spacecraft.

The DIU will accept responses until Sept. 7. Selected space systems will be demonstrated in a mission called Victus Haze, DefenseScoop reported. Victus Haze is expected to enhance the Department of Defense’s ability to meet on-orbit needs and respond to adversarial or natural space threats. It will follow the Space Force’s Victus Nox responsive space mission expected for launch later in 2023.

In a separate effort, the Space Force is seeking capabilities for rapid satellite deployment under the Tactically Responsive Space Challenge run by SpaceWERX and the Space Systems Command. Companies are invited to submit bids on the DOD’s Small Business Innovation Research portal by Sept. 28 for an opportunity to secure direct-to-Phase 2 Small Business Technology Transfer contracts worth up to $1.7 million.

According to Lt. Col. MacKenzie Birchenough, Space Safari materiel leader at SSC, the branch is interested in technologies that can be prototyped over 15 months and fielded within two years.