Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL)

The contract pertains to the Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL) program, managed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Transformational Capabilities Office and the Department of Defense. REGAL focuses on the development and demonstration of rapid point-to-point space transportation systems leveraging commercial rocket technologies to support DoD logistics. The overarching program, with an estimated value of $250 million and multiple anticipated awards, aims to enable global cargo delivery within approximately one hour, emphasizing large payloads between 30 and 100 metric tons. The program is structured through an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA), which remains open for submissions until July 1, 2027, and employs a multi-step solicitation approach involving Calls for Proposals to refine and select innovative solutions. This latest amendment, dated March 11, 2024, introduces modifications to the initial ARA and formally issues Call 003, which focuses on innovative payload reentry systems capable of returning 5-10 ton payloads from space. The solicitation prioritizes vehicle-agnostic downmass technologies that do not necessitate modifications to existing DoD hardware, aiming to broaden launch vehicle compatibility and enhance material transport capabilities. The two-step solicitation process begins with white paper submissions due by March 31, 2027, followed by Requests for Proposals. The amendment integrates prior attachments clarifying submission procedures, contract types—including Other Transactions—and encourages engagement between offerors and government representatives. The overall program seeks to drive breakthroughs in launch, flight, landing, reentry thermal protection, and operational deployment to enhance DoD’s global rapid response logistics via commercial rocket platforms. Additionally, security requirements and prohibitions on specific technology use, such as applications from ByteDance, are stipulated to maintain compliance with federal regulations throughout project execution.