Proof of Capability Seen as Challenge to SDA’s Multi-Contractor Approach on Proliferated Satellite Architecture

A new Aerospace Corp. study indicates that the Space Development Agency’s acquisition model involving multiple suppliers for its proliferated warfighting space architecture unlocks the rapid supply of new capabilities but it still needs to prove the system’s value at scale. 

Under PWSA, a network of about 500 low Earth orbit satellites will be launched to boost defense against anti-satellite weapons, with a projected investment of $2 billion every two years.

According to Andrew Berglund, senior policy analyst at Aerospace’s Center for Space Policy and Strategy and author of the study, proving the effectiveness of PWSA’s approaches is critical to maintaining program support and funding, SpaceNews reported Thursday.

The Aerospace study sees challenges in the SDA’s strategy of engaging several main PWSA contractors, which include commercial companies new at handling Department of Defense satellite projects. 

Sustaining competition is one hurdle seen in the SDA’s multi-contractor model because of the “inherent tension” that Berglund anticipates between the most successful prime contractors and the agency’s goal of keeping the market competitive and dynamic.

Berglund also expects that the supply chain issues SDA experienced recently will continue because of the agency’s requirement for vendors to secure parts and components immediately after contract awards.