SDA Creates Vendor Pool to Accelerate Tech Demonstration Support Contract Awarding

The Space Development Agency is building a pool of experienced and capable contractors aimed at accelerating the process of securing support services for its future technology demonstrations.

In a solicitation posted on SAM .gov, the SDA said that it established the Hybrid Acquisition for Proliferated LEO program to provide non-traditional defense contractors with the opportunity to work directly with the agency on a wide range of projects. Structured as a multi-step competition, the program will be composed of several vendors, all of which are eligible to compete on future SDA projects, including the Tranche 2 Demonstration and Experimentation System, SDA .mil reported.

The SDA is hosting a virtual and in-person unclassified industry day on June 17 to offer more information on HALO.

The agency has been working to ensure it can develop new technologies to ensure U.S. leadership in space. Speaking at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Space Summit, SDA Director Derek Tournear, a Wash100 awardee and past POC event speaker, said that ensuring that there is no “vendor lock” and that all contractors are playing on the same level ensures the stability of satellite prices and the quality of technology.