Rocket Cargo

This effort focuses on advancing the Rocket Cargo mission by conducting architecture and requirements studies, system design, and demonstrations to determine how emerging commercial and government technologies can be leveraged to fulfill the Department of War’s operational needs. The work is centered on defining clear, actionable requirements for systems capable of enabling rapid, global logistics via rocket-based cargo delivery, with an emphasis on practical application and real-world feasibility through targeted demonstrations. The initiative stems from a competitive procurement under ARA FA8650-21-S-9307, Call 003, Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL), specifically targeting payload reentry and space development capabilities. The contract was awarded as a firm fixed price agreement with an associated cost-reimbursable CLIN, reflecting a balanced approach to risk and accountability aligned with FAR 16.104 guidelines. Awarded under solicitation FA8650-26-C-B017, it is managed by the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, with performance taking place in Monument, Colorado. The North American Industry Classification System code 541715 identifies the work as research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences. There is no set-aside designation, meaning the award is open to all eligible entities. Clayton Kaiser of the U.S. Air Force serves as the primary point of contact for the project.