OPEN- STTR Direct-to-Phase-II Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Space Force Stakeholder Need

The Space Force is a large and complex organization consisting of many functions, a vast majority of which have similar counterparts in the commercial sector. It is important that potential solutions have a high probability of keeping pace with technological change. Thus, solutions should be closely tied to commercial technologies and solutions supporting the proposed development. This topic is meant for non-defense commercial solutions to be adapted to meet Space Force stakeholders' needs. The topic is truly 'open' (agnostic of industry, technology, and problem area), but proposals for this topic should demonstrate a high probability of identifying a product-mission fit between a Space Force stakeholder and the proposed adaptation of the non-defense commercial solution. This is accomplished most effectively through a proposal with a mature non-defense technical solution and a clear understanding of its adaptation to meet a USSF customer's specific need, supported by documentation from a specific motivated, empowered technical point of contact (TPOC) ready and willing to participate in the proposed prototype solution's trial. According to the USSF Commercial Space Strategy, there are eight (8) mission areas considered for commercial support: Space Domain Awareness (SDA); Satellite Communications (SATCOM); Space Access, Mobility, and Logistics (SAML); Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) – hereafter referred to as Tactical Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Tracking (TacSRT); Space-based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM); Cyberspace Operations; Command and Control (C2); and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). Additionally, the USSF will seek hybrid solutions for Space Mission Enablers, those functions that span multiple missions and are fundamental to conducting space operations. Although the USSF also performs missile warning, combat power projection, electromagnetic warfare, and nuclear detonation (NUDET) detection, the USSF is not currently seeking commercial support for these missions. Additional information on the USSF Commercial Space Strategy can be found at https://www.spaceforce.mil/Portals/2/Documents/Space%20Policy/USSF_Commercial_Space_Strategy.pdf. Additionally, it is possible for a solution to provide a capability in a previously unconsidered area. Therefore, if an applicant feels its solution does not fit within one of the listed capabilities, it can reference the “BLUE SKY” category, including an explanation of the solution’s ability to provide increased strategic capability within the context of Air Force, Space Force, national, and global constraints. As applicable, the applicant should address the category(ies) to which the solution aligns in the Technical Volume. Proposals should identify which of the OUSW(R&E) Critical Technology Areas, Component Technology Areas, USSF Commercial Space Strategy Mission Areas the proposed solution addresses or otherwise reference "BLUE SKY" and include an explanation of the solution's ability to provide increased strategic capability within the context of USSF, national, and global constraints.