Jacob W. Bair

Capt Jacob Bair serves as a key procurement lead within the FA8809 SDA and Combat Power SSC/SZK-IK, a specialized unit of the Department of the Air Force focused on accelerating next-generation space combat capabilities. He manages the acquisition of experimental space systems, hybrid architecture prototypes, and advanced test platforms designed to enhance resilience and operational agility in contested orbital environments. His portfolio centers on rapid prototyping, systems engineering, and fielding of cutting-edge space-based technologies, aligning closely with the agency’s mission to bridge the gap between R&D and operational deployment. Capt Bair handles complex, time-sensitive procurements under Other Transaction Authority (OTA) and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs), often navigating non-traditional defense contracting pathways to expedite innovation. Capt Bair collaborates extensively with defense primes, aerospace innovators, and emerging space technology firms engaged in guided missile and space vehicle development, radio and wireless communications systems, and physical sciences R&D. His working relationships are characterized by agile, mission-driven partnerships with both established aerospace contractors and non-traditional vendors capable of delivering rapid iteration and modular system integration. He prioritizes technical responsiveness over legacy compliance frameworks, fostering direct engagement with vendors possessing domain-specific expertise in space situational awareness, secure communications, and on-orbit autonomy. Capt Bair’s contracting activity reflects a strong preference for open competition, with 100% of acquisitions classified as “No Set-Aside.” While he does not routinely utilize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides, his approach enables broad participation from technically capable firms regardless of socioeconomic designation, prioritizing mission readiness and innovation velocity over socioeconomic targets. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 334220 for radio and wireless communications equipment, 336414 for guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing, and 541715 for physical sciences R&D. He routinely acquires secure space-based transceivers, experimental payload modules, autonomous guidance systems, and advanced testbed instrumentation, demonstrating deep technical fluency in space architecture, RF systems, and experimental payload integration.