National Reconnaissance Office Solicits Emerging Electro-Optical Imaging Capabilities

The National Reconnaissance Office is looking for infrared, multispectral, nighttime, non-Earth and other electro-optical imaging capabilities from commercial remote-sensing companies.

The agency explained in a broad agency announcement that it wants emerging types of imaging not provided by ongoing Electro-Optical Commercial Layer contracts with BlackSky, Maxar Technologies and Planet Labs. Maxar’s deal is worth $3.24 billion over a 10-year period.

The NRO set an Aug. 28 deadline for proposals, SpaceNews reported.

In April, NRO Director Christopher Scolese first revealed plans to solicit EO imaging capabilities through the Strategic Commercial Enhancements BAA, which is open to domestic companies and foreign companies with local subsidiaries. According to Scolese, a 2023 Wash100 winner, the BAA allows the agency to learn what industry can offer.

Firms that have signed deals with the NRO under Strategic Commercial Enhancements include Aurora Insight, Kleos Space and Spire Global for radio frequency technology. The agency is also using the BAA to acquire hyperspectral imaging and synthetic aperture radar capabilities.