Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS), aka "Connects"
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 Space Acquisition and Integration Office (SAIO), on behalf of the 21st Communications Squadron (21 CS), is conducting market research for the Communications, Network, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Information Technology Services (CNECTS) acquisition, also known as "Connects." This is the third Request for Information (RFI) and focuses on gathering industry input for an upcoming Industry Day. The acquisition aims to consolidate several communications contracts across Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and Cheyenne Mountain SFS. This effort is planned as a Total Small Business Set-Aside via a Commercial Solutions Offering (CSO).
Purpose & Background
The Government is exploring the feasibility of consolidating existing communications and IT support contracts into a single, larger CNECTS contract, estimated at approximately $330M. This RFI seeks industry input to shape the Industry Day agenda and ensure it addresses key interests. Previous RFIs have been issued, and the scope has been refined, notably with the removal of the PEDS PWS workload.
Scope of Services
The CNECTS contract will encompass a broad range of IT services, including network infrastructure, cybersecurity, client systems support, and mission systems operations. Services remaining on CNECTS include NORAD/NORTHCOM services, Marquee Support (CMSFS), Cable Maintenance, and SSR/O duties for 21 CS controlled SCIFS. New additions to the CNECTS scope include Technical Control Facility Support (PSFB), Client Systems Technician/Help Desk, Network Switch/Zero Client install (PSFB), Executive Comm (PSFB), Cable TV maintenance/install, Printer management, and potential absorption of multiple independent CST/Help Desk Contracts (PSFB/SSFS). Services removed or reduced include Database management (reduced), Com Focal Point (standard duty hours), and various AFNET-related infrastructure and operations.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Special Notice (Request for Information for Industry Day)
- Acquisition Strategy: Commercial Solutions Offering (CSO) limited to Small Business Entities
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- NAICS Code: 517810 (All Other Telecommunications) with a $40M small business size standard
- Estimated Value: Approximately $330M
- Estimated Award Timeline: February 2027 (12 months from RFI #2)
- Place of Performance: Colorado Springs, CO (Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, Cheyenne Mountain SFS)
Industry Day & Engagement
An Industry Day is scheduled for March 11, 2026, at Penrose House, Colorado Springs, CO, with virtual attendance options. One-on-one sessions will be held on March 12-13, 2026. Industry is requested to submit questions, suggested discussion topics, and concerns for the agenda. Proprietary questions should be clearly identified.
Key Dates & Contacts
- Industry Input/Registration Deadline: February 23, 2026
- Industry Day: March 11, 2026
- One-on-One Sessions: March 12-13, 2026
- Primary Contact: Rosalind Davis (rosalind.davis.3@spaceforce.mil, 719-567-6183)
- Secondary Contact: Austin Frindt (austin.frindt@spaceforce.mil, 719-556-6947)