Enhanced Mobile Satellite Service (EMSS) Airtime Requirement

SOL #: FA2541-26-002Sources Sought

Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSE

Dept Of The Air Force

FA2541 SSC COMRCL SVS OFC SSC CMK

CHANTILLY, VA, 20151, United States

Place of Performance

Place of performance not available

NAICS

Satellite Telecommunications (517410)

PSC

Telecom Access And Other Usage Billing Services. Includes Satellite Communications Access, Internet, Cellular Services, Landline And Telephone Services. Transport Services For Data And Voice Network Circuits And Associated Access Facilities And Services; Includes Dedicated And Virtual Data Networks. (DG11)

Set Aside

No set aside specified

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/46c823eef43a4f73804b5abc2414f90a/view

Timeline

Posted

Jan 20, 2026

Last Updated

Feb 9, 2026

Response Deadline

Feb 20, 2026, 5:00 PM

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 (U.S. Space Force) is conducting market research to establish a contract vehicle for Enhanced Mobile Satellite Service (EMSS) Airtime. This effort aims to provide the U.S. military and global partners with worldwide commercial satellite communication (COMSATCOM) services. Responses are due February 20, 2026.

Scope of Work

The primary objective is to fulfill EMSS requirements and capabilities by providing access to worldwide commercial satellite networks. Key tasks include:

Providing airtime and connectivity for mobile satellite services.
Ensuring compatibility with the EMSS Approved Product List (APL).
Supporting diverse military and partner operational requirements across global regions.

Contract & Timeline

Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
Duration: Anticipated one-year base period with four one-year options.
Estimated Start: September 2026.
Set-Aside: None specified (Market Research stage).
Response Due: February 20, 2026.
Published: February 5, 2026.

Evaluation

The government is seeking industry information to conduct market research and ensure that any future contemplated award is priced fairly and reasonably. Responses will help shape the acquisition strategy and determine the feasibility of various commercial solutions.

Additional Notes

Interested vendors should review the three primary attachments: the RFI Letter, the Draft Performance Work Statement (PWS), and the EMSS Partial Approved Product List (APL). Questions and answers regarding the requirement have also been posted to the notice.