Aerospace Systems Technical Research & Operations Support Services II (ASTROS II)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force (AFRL/RQ-West) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) for Aerospace Systems Technical Research & Operations Support Services II (ASTROS II). This is a follow-on effort to provide specialized capabilities for evaluating, designing, constructing, and operating experimental rocket propulsion test facilities and systems at Edwards AFB, CA. Responses to Series 01 and 02 are due by May 21, 2026, at 1600 PST.
Scope of Work
This requirement, detailed in the Draft PWS, demands specialized knowledge in all aspects of rocket propulsion testing, ranging from small bench-scale liquid engine components to launch booster-class engines and strategic rocket motors. It includes practical knowledge of combined cycle designs, spacecraft propulsion, and space/missile propulsion system component testing. The contractor will be responsible for the holistic design, buildup, test, and data collection of integrated advanced propulsion systems and their associated facilities. This encompasses steam and mechanical-driven altitude facilities, thrust measurement systems, instrumentation, control systems, deluge/fire retardation systems, special test equipment, and support infrastructure. Tasks also involve designing, building, modifying, activating, operating, and deactivating fuel and oxidizer propellant systems for toxic, storable, hypergolic, cryogenic, high-pressure, explosives, and hydrocarbon propellants, as well as their handling, transport, and storage.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Anticipated NAICS: 541715
- Set-Aside: Government is considering various contracting strategies, including a potential small business set-aside.
- Response Due: May 21, 2026, at 1600 PST (for Series 01 and 02)
- Published: April 28, 2026
- Anticipated Period of Performance: 10 years, potentially with performance incentives.
- Target Award Date: June 2027
Key Information for Bidders
This RFI is for market research only and does not constitute a solicitation; no contract will be awarded based on responses. Submission of information is voluntary. An Industry Day will be held at Edwards AFB, CA, with details to be posted on SAM.gov. Responses must be submitted electronically with the subject line "Response to ASTROS II RFI – Insert Company Name." Bidders must have an active CAGE code and be registered in SAM.gov. Security requirements include a minimum favorable National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI), with potential for Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearances, and compliance with Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is expected.
Points of Contact
- Contract Specialist: Lauren Petrey (lauren.petrey@us.af.mil)
- Contracting Officer: Mathew Pierson (mathew.pierson@us.af.mil)