National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) Innovative Technology & Engineering - Space Test and Range (NITE-STAR) - Capability Development

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Statement of Work (SOW) outlines the requirements for the National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) Innovative Technology & Engineering – Space Test and Range (NITE-STAR) Capability Development Multiple Award (MA) Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The primary goal is to support the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) by developing, integrating, testing, and sustaining advanced space-based and ground-based systems.

• Systems Development: Design, build, integrate, deliver, and deploy space-based systems (e.g., satellite vehicles, payloads) and ground-based systems (e.g., ground stations, sensors, C2 architecture).

• Digital Twins: Develop digital twins for real-time system representation, validation, testing, and training.

• Sustainment: Provide lifecycle management for space and ground systems, ensuring cybersecurity and performance optimization.

• Enterprise & Range Enhancements: Improve range infrastructure, automation, interoperability, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.

• Special Studies: Conduct technical analyses and assessments for risk identification and technology evaluation.

• Quality assurance processes and procedures are required to ensure reliability, durability, and long-term performance.

• Performance will be measured against Government requirements and standards.

• The IDIQ contract has a five (5) year ordering period with an optional five (5) year period.

• Task Orders (TOs) or Delivery Orders (DOs) may extend beyond the ordering period, but not more than one (1) year beyond the optional ordering period end date.

• Performance locations will be defined at the TO/DO level.

• Security: Implement a security program to protect classified information, including access to Secure Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) and adherence to DoD cybersecurity standards (NIST SP 800-37, NIST SP 800-53).

• Personnel: Maintain personnel clearances and cybersecurity certifications (DoD 8570).

• Travel: Travel may be required in support of TOs/DOs as per the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR).

• Government Furnished Property/Information (GFP/GFI): Will be addressed at the TO/DO level.

• Data Rights: Will be addressed at the TO/DO level.

• Training and Support: Provide training materials, CONOPS development, and technical support for systems developed.

• Documentation: Create comprehensive documentation, including designs, specifications, user manuals, test plans, and lifecycle management plans.

• Associate Contractor Agreements (ACA): May be required for joint participation.

• Government Team: Includes Non-Government Advisors (NGAs) such as FFRDCs, UARCs, and A&AS contractors. The contractor must cooperate with The Aerospace Corporation for technical support and information exchange.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document outlines the evaluation factors for award for the National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) Innovative Technology & Engineering - Space Test and Range (NITE-STAR) Capability Development Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The Government will award contracts to Qualifying Offerors based on these factors.

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following factors:

• Factor 1: Technical (Acceptable/Unacceptable)

  • Subfactor 1 (Gate 1): Security Compliance Requirements (Pass/Fail) - Requires a minimum TOP SECRET facility clearance with SAP-F overlay, accredited for TS/SCI and SAR/SAP work, and demonstrated ability to perform cyber security and RMF work per NIST SP 800-37 and NIST SP 800-53.
  • Subfactor 2: Qualifying Relevant Projects (QRPs) (Pass/Fail) - Requires demonstration of two (2) QRPs, each with a minimum of six (6) months of continuous performance within the past five (5) years.
    • QRP One (1) must be a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) Space System with specific attributes (e.g., altitude, mass, design life, sensing capabilities, uplink/downlink).
    • QRP Two (2) must be a Geosynchronous/Geostationary Orbit (GEO) Space System with specific attributes (e.g., altitude, mass, design life, sensing capabilities, secure ground TT&C).

• Factor 2: Small Business Participation Commitment (Acceptable/Unacceptable) - Evaluates the adequacy of the Offeror's approach to meeting Small Business Program objectives, including descriptions of proposed small business participation, subcontracted work, and associated goals.

• This is a Multiple Award (MA) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle.

• The Government reserves the right not to award any contracts.

• A Task Order for a Post Award Kickoff Conference will be awarded to all Qualifying Offerors.

• Proposals must be submitted by the due date and time specified in Section L (Attachment 6).

• The evaluation uses a gated technical approach; failure in Gate 1 (Security Compliance) renders the proposal ineligible for further evaluation.

• Discussions may not be held; Offerors are advised to submit their best proposal.

• Contractor responsibility will be determined based on FAR 9.104-1, DFARS 209.104-1, and DAFFARS 5309.104-1.

• Focus is on "Qualifying Offerors" who are responsible sources, submit technically acceptable proposals, and provide acceptable Small Business Participation Documents.

• Volume IV covers Contract Documentation, including Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) and Small Business Subcontracting Plan.

• The Small Business Participation Commitment factor will not be evaluated if an Offeror is rated Unacceptable for the Technical factor.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) detailing specific data items required from the contractor. It outlines the format, submission frequency, and delivery instructions for these data items.

• Data Item A001: Presentation Material: Requires presentation material in PowerPoint format. It is due three (3) business days prior to the Kickoff Meeting and should be delivered via email to specified Space Force personnel.
• Data Item A002: Meeting Minutes: Requires meeting minutes in contractor format. It is due three (3) business days after the meeting and should be delivered via email to the same specified Space Force personnel.

This CDRL specifies deliverables that potential bidders need to be aware of. It indicates the types of documentation and reporting the contractor will be responsible for, including presentation materials and meeting minutes, and outlines the submission process and deadlines. This information is crucial for understanding the full scope of contractual obligations beyond the core services.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment 3 Compliance Reference Documents (Publicly Available Documents)," provides a comprehensive list of reference materials that may be relevant for compliance with the NITE-STAR Capability Development IDIQ. It serves as a guide for bidders to identify and consult applicable standards, policies, and frameworks.

The document is organized into a table with two columns:

• Reference Number: The official designation of the document.
• Title/Description: A brief explanation of the document's content.

Topics covered include, but are not limited to:

• Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM)
• Program Protection Planning
• Security and Information Technology Standards (e.g., CNSSI, NIST SP series, DoD directives)
• Personnel and Industrial Security
• Architecture Frameworks
• Risk Management Frameworks (RMF)
• Acquisition Frameworks
• Cybersecurity
• Earned Value Management Systems
• Software Development
• Reliability and Survivability Programs
• Configuration Management

Bidders should review this list to understand the compliance landscape for the NITE-STAR Capability Development IDIQ. Familiarity with these referenced documents is likely crucial for developing compliant proposals and for understanding the technical, security, and programmatic requirements of the contract. It indicates areas where specific standards or methodologies must be adhered to.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is Attachment 8, the Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI) Mitigation Plan Checklist, for the NITE-STAR Capability Development IDIQ. It serves as a guide for offerors to ensure their proposed OCI mitigation plan addresses all necessary requirements.

The checklist is organized into the following sections:

• General Considerations: Requires a statement of corporate commitment, organizational structure details, and letters of commitment from teammates/subcontractors.
• Definitions: Defines acronyms and terms used in the OCI Plan.
• Management of OCI Plan: Outlines responsibilities for oversight, documentation, and notification processes related to OCI.
• OCI Training: Details requirements for training personnel on OCI, including frequency, documentation, and identification of personnel not subject to training.
• OCI Plan Reviews: Describes how OCI processes and procedures are overseen and audited.
• Description of OCI Situation: Requires identification and classification of actual and potential OCI situations, including applicable contract numbers and customers.
• OCI Mitigation: Details proposed avoidance or mitigation techniques, responsible individuals, and specific requirements for biased ground rules or impaired objectivity situations.

Offerors must use this checklist to construct their OCI mitigation plan, which is a required attachment for any contract resulting from this solicitation. The plan must address all items on this checklist, with corresponding page and paragraph numbers from the OCI mitigation plan provided. Mark items not applicable as "N/A."

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This Statement of Work (SOW) outlines the requirements for Task Order 01 (TO 01) of the NITE-STAR Capability Development Multiple Award (MA) Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The primary objective of TO 01 is to conduct a Post Award Kickoff Conference to establish a clear understanding of contract requirements, communication channels, and expectations for contract execution.

• Post Award Kickoff Conference: The contractor shall participate in a face-to-face kickoff conference held in Colorado Springs, CO, no later than 30 days after contract award. The conference is expected to last approximately 90 minutes and will be conducted individually with each contractor, not with the entire IDIQ pool.

• Purpose of Meeting: The meeting will serve as a forum for questions and clarifications. No changes to the contract terms or requirements will be made during this conference.

• Content: The conference will include team introductions (emphasizing roles and key personnel), a capabilities overview briefing (detailing capabilities, processes, and management approach), and discussions on potential improvements and suggestions for the NITE-STAR Capability Development IDIQ and future task orders.

• Presentation Material (CDRL A001): To be provided via e-mail to the Government Contracting Officer and Government Program Manager at least three (3) business days before the meeting. Microsoft PowerPoint is the preferred format.

• Kickoff Meeting Minutes (CDRL A002): To be produced and delivered, capturing attendees, key discussion points, and action items. Microsoft Word is the preferred format.

• Conference Location: Colorado Springs, CO

• Timing: No later than 30 days after contract award.

• Contract Type: This Task Order is a firm-fixed price TO valued at $10,000.

• Format: Microsoft PowerPoint for presentation material and Microsoft Word for meeting minutes are preferred.

Other / Unclassified

This document outlines the ordering procedures for the NITE-STAR Capability Development Multiple Award (MA) Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contract. It clarifies that the IDIQ is not a mandatory contract vehicle and that SSC/TIK is the responsible contracting office for all task/delivery orders (TO/DOs).

• Purpose of TO/DOs: To support objectives of the OTTI Program Executive Officer (PEO) and other stakeholders within the space test and training enterprise.
• Ordering Authority: Governed by FAR clause 52.216-18 Ordering.
• Initial DO: An initial Delivery Order (DO) of $10,000 is anticipated for a Post Award Kickoff Conference.
• Monetary Limit: The total limit for all TO/DOs against these contract vehicles is $981,000,000.
• Ordering Process: Governed by FAR 16.505. A Fair Opportunity Request for Offer (FORFO) will generally be issued to prime contractors for TO/DOs, unless an exception exists. TO/DOs will be subject to FAR 16.505(b)(1) fair opportunity processes.
• Selection Method: TO/DOs are anticipated to be selected on a best-value tradeoff or lowest price technically acceptable basis, but the Government reserves the right to use any selection method. Evaluation will be against criteria specified in the FORFO.
• Ordering Period: The IDIQ has a five (5) year ordering period with a potential one (1) five (5) year optional ordering period. Performance can extend up to one year beyond the optional ordering period end date.
• Contract Types: The Government plans to utilize various contract types for task/delivery orders, including Firm-Fixed Price (FFP), Fixed Price Incentive Firm (FPIF), Cost Plus Incentive Fee (CPIF), Cost Plus Fixed-Fee (CPFF), Cost Reimbursable (CR), Cost Plus Award Fee (CPAF), and Fixed Price Award Fee (FPAF), with the right to use any type described in FAR Part 16.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document, Section L - Instructions, Conditions and Notices to Offerors, provides guidance for submitting proposals for the National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) Innovative Technology & Engineering - Space Test and Range (NITE-STAR) Capability Development Multiple Award (MA) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The acquisition is conducted under FAR 15.101-2 and 15.3, supplemented by DFARS 215.300. The NAICS code is 541715 with a size standard of 1,000 employees.

The proposal is to be organized into four volumes:

• Volume I – Executive Summary: A narrative overview, not for evaluation.

• Volume II – Technical Factor: Addresses Security Compliance Requirements (minimum facility clearance of TOP SECRET with SAP-F, accredited for TS/SCI and SAR/SAP, and evidence of cyber security/RMF capabilities) and Qualifying Relevant Projects (QRPs). Two QRPs are required: one for Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) and one for Geosynchronous/Geostationary Orbit (GEO) space systems, detailing specific work experience as prime contractor.

• Volume III – Small Business Participation Commitment Factor: Requires a Small Business Participation Commitment Document detailing subcontractors, products/services, and commitment to small business utilization.

• Volume IV – Contract Documentation: Includes Company Cover Letter, Non-Government Advisors Consent/Objection, Standard Form 33, OCI Analysis, CRWL documentation (if applicable), Small Business Subcontracting Plan (if applicable), and Contractor Responsibility self-assessment.

• Contract Type: Multiple-award IDIQ contracts. Task/delivery orders may utilize various contract types (FFP, FPIF, CPIF, CPFF, CR, CPAF, FPAF, or others in FAR Part 16).

• Period of Performance: Base five-year ordering period with one five-year option. Task/delivery orders can extend beyond the ordering period, but not more than one year past the option end date.

• Proposal Due Date: DAY MONTH 2025, 12:00 PM Mountain Time.

• Submission Method: Entire proposal package via email to SSC.TIK.NITESTAR@spaceforce.mil. No hard copies accepted. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation Module.

• Questions Deadline: On or before 10 calendar days after RFP release (1700 MT, DAY MONTH 2025).

• Evaluation: Technical proposals will be evaluated based on gated approach for Security Compliance Requirements and Qualifying Relevant Projects. Other volumes are for compliance and completeness.

No specific set-aside is mentioned. Offerors must meet security clearance requirements. Companies providing A&AS, SETA, or FFRDC support services to OTTI are precluded from proposing due to potential OCI.

• Proposals must adhere to strict page limitations for Volume I (5 pages) and Volume II (15 pages). Other volumes have no page limit.
• Specific formatting requirements (font, margins, spacing) are detailed.
• Offerors must acknowledge any amendments to the solicitation.
• Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) analysis and mitigation plan are required.
• Contractors on the Space Contractor Responsibility Watch List (CRWL) require special approval.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document contains questions and comments submitted by potential vendors regarding the Draft NITE-STAR Capability Development RFP. It is intended to provide clarification and gather feedback before the final RFP is issued.

This document is a template for submitting questions and comments. It includes columns for:

• Q/C # (Question/Comment Number)
• Document Title
• Page #
• Question/Comment

It does not contain specific questions or answers at this time, but rather provides the structure for their submission.

This document serves as a placeholder for future Q&A that will inform the final solicitation. Bidders should use this format to submit their questions and comments.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a DD Form 254, Contract Security Classification Specification. It provides detailed information regarding the security classification, safeguarding requirements, and access levels necessary for a specific contract or subcontract effort. It is used to communicate security requirements between the government and contractors.

• Clearance and Safeguarding: Specifies the required Facility Security Clearance (FCL) and level of safeguarding for classified information/material at the contractor facility (e.g., Top Secret).
• Contract Information: Identifies the prime contract number, subcontract number, solicitation number, and due dates.
• Contractor and Subcontractor Details: Lists the names, addresses, CAGE codes, and Cognizant Security Offices (CSOs) for prime contractors and any subcontractors.
• Performance Locations: Details the specific locations where actual performance will occur, along with associated CAGE codes and CSOs.
• Description of Procurement: Provides a general unclassified description of the procurement, including the mission of the Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) Integrated Program Office (IPO) and the contract vehicle being used (NITE-STAR MA IDIQ).
• Access Requirements: Outlines the types of information the contractor will require access to, such as COMSEC, SCI, SAP, CUI, etc.
• Security Guidance: Details the specific security classification guidance, including references to relevant directives, manuals, and clauses.
• Public Release: Specifies procedures and authorities for public release of information related to the contract.
• Inspections: Clarifies the inspection responsibilities of the CSO and other relevant entities.
• Government Contracting Activity (GCA) and POC: Identifies the GCA and the primary point of contact.
• Certification and Signatures: Includes fields for certifying officials to confirm the adequacy of security requirements.

This form is critical for bidders to understand the security implications of the contract. It outlines the necessary security clearances, handling procedures for classified and controlled unclassified information, and the locations where such work will be performed. Bidders must ensure they have the capability to meet these security requirements, as failure to do so can prevent contract award or performance. It also identifies key security points of contact for further clarification.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the procedures for "On-Ramp" and "Off-Ramp" related to the NITE-STAR Capability Development IDIQ contract. It details how the government can add new awardees to the IDIQ (On-Ramp) and remove underperforming contractors (Off-Ramp).

On-Ramps:

• The government reserves the right to reopen competition to add new awardees at any time.
• This may occur to enhance competition for Task Orders/Delivery Orders (TO/DOs).
• New awardees must meet the criteria of the initial NITE-STAR Capability Development MA IDIQ solicitation.
• Evaluation and selection will use criteria similar to the initial awards.
• New awardees will compete for TO/DOs under the IDIQ.
• Reopened solicitations may include updated clauses; existing contractors will be notified via bilateral modification.
• Additions due to On-Ramps will be co-terminus with the existing IDIQ term and will not extend the overall maximum term or ordering period.
• Unsolicited requests for addition will not be considered.

Off-Ramps:

• The government reserves the right to remove non-performing contractors.
• Off-Ramped contractors remain responsible for active TO/DOs until their period of performance ends.
• Off-Ramp can occur if a contractor is not performing according to contract terms, has unsatisfactory CPARS ratings, or fails to maintain a security program.
• Off-Ramp methods include:
  • Contracting Officer determining exercising an Option is not in the Government's best interest.
  • Debarment, suspension, or ineligibility.
  • Termination.

This document is crucial for understanding the potential for new entrants into the NITE-STAR Capability Development IDIQ contract (On-Ramp) and the conditions under which existing contractors might be removed (Off-Ramp). It clarifies the process for adding new awardees and the criteria for performance that could lead to removal from the contract. Bidders interested in this IDIQ should be aware of these procedures as they impact the competitive landscape and contract management.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a solicitation for the National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) Innovative Technology & Engineering - Space Test and Range (NITE-STAR) Capability Development Multiple Award Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The government is seeking offers for supplies and services to be furnished under this IDIQ contract, with specific requirements to be detailed in individual delivery and task orders.

• The solicitation outlines various contract line item numbers (CLINs) for different contract types, including Firm-Fixed Price (FFP), Fixed-Price Incentive Firm (FPIF), Cost Plus Incentive Fee (CPIF), Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF), Cost Reimbursable (CR), and Cost Plus Award Fee (CPAF).

• Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs) are specified for various CLINs, indicating the need for data and reports.

• The Statement of Work (SOW) is referenced as Attachment 1 in Section J.

• The contract type is an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ).

• The ordering period for the base contract is from XX Month 2026 through XX Month 2031.

• An option ordering period is available from XX Month 2031 through XX Month 2036.

• The solicitation includes provisions for options to extend the term of the ordering period.

• Offers are due by 12:00 PM local time on October 31, 2025.

• Section M, "Evaluation Factors for Award," will detail the criteria for evaluating proposals.

• Section L, "Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Quoters," provides instructions for proposal submission.

• The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 541715.

• The small business size standard is 1,000 Employees.

• Section K includes representations and certifications related to small business status and other eligibility requirements.

• The document includes a comprehensive list of attachments in Section J, covering the Statement of Work, Contract Security Classification Specification, Compliance & Reference Documentation, Ordering Procedures, On-Ramp/Off-Ramp Procedures, and specific sections for Section L and Section M.

• Various FAR and DFARS clauses are incorporated by reference and in full text throughout the document, detailing contract administration, payment, inspection, and other requirements.