Secure On-Orbit Cybersecurity Architecture

The contract seeks the development of comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks tailored for space-based systems, with a focus on intrusion detection, secure communications, and zero-trust architectures specifically designed for satellite networks. The effort aims to establish robust, scalable security protocols capable of addressing the unique threat landscape of orbital assets, ensuring resilience against cyberattacks throughout the mission lifecycle. Solutions must be optimized for the constrained environments of spacecraft, balancing computational efficiency with high levels of security and real-time adaptability. This is a subcontract opportunity under the Department of Defense, specifically managed by AFRL RVK, with a North American Industry Classification System code of 541512 indicating information technology services. Proposals must be submitted by August 13, 2026, and the scope involves creating technical frameworks that can be integrated into future and existing satellite systems to enforce end-to-end security across distributed space assets. The work is expected to leverage cutting-edge cybersecurity research and must align with DoD standards for operational resilience in contested environments.