18 -- Operationally Responsive Modular Bus

The Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate, in collaboration with the Department of Defense Office of Force Transformation, is soliciting proposals through a Broad Agency Announcement focused on developing and demonstrating modular bus standards and processes for Operationally Responsive Space applications. The initiative aims to produce adaptable, low-cost, and rapidly deployable modular satellite buses that meet evolving tactical military requirements by enabling faster delivery of relevant space system performance. These modular buses will support the deployment of tactical satellites as low-cost consumable sensor nodes that integrate within a layered network consisting of ground, air, and space-based sensor systems. The project prioritizes a development approach that incorporates plug-and-play standards and interfaces, supports multiple payload types and orbital mission profiles, and minimizes non-recurring engineering costs for subsequent satellite builds. This approach ensures operational flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and accelerated deployment timelines for tactical space assets. The contract is managed by the AFRL office located at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, with Bruce L Wells serving as the contracting officer. The solicitation reflects a strategic move toward enhancing the military’s ability to respond to unanticipated tactical needs through innovative space technologies and modularity.