ROOSTER-6 Integration & Support RFI
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 Systems Command (SSC), SYD-89 Capability Development System Program Manager (SPM) is conducting a Sources Sought (RFI) for the ROOSTER-6 Integration & Support Contract. This RFI seeks information on potential sources capable of integrating a secondary payload ring/platform, specifically the Northrup Grumman ESPAStar-D, to host multiple payloads for national security missions, including those up to the highest classified levels. The primary focus is on GEO Orbit missions launched via National Security Space Launch (NSSL). Responses are due by February 28, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Government is seeking an experienced integrator for a flexible, modular, propulsive host satellite ring/platform that can accommodate multiple separable and non-separable payloads. Key requirements include:
- Integration: Fully integrate separable and non-separable Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) payloads onto the ESPAStar-D platform.
- Platform: The host ring/platform must have a minimum 2-year operational design life and be capable of hosting at least six ESPAStar-D Class Payloads.
- Testing: Support standard space vehicle environmental testing of the integrated host ring/platform, including coupled loads analysis, thermal analysis, and functional testing in a simulated space environment. Support for testing with payload mass simulators is also expected.
- Operations: Support launch and early on-orbit operations, including anomaly resolution.
- Security: Ability to support payloads at various classification levels up to and including TS/SCI and SAP, requiring appropriate personnel, facilities, security, and communication systems.
- Flexibility: Ability to support late-manifested payloads (less than L-12 months).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: February 28, 2026, 12:30 AM EST
- Published: February 11, 2026
- Agency: DEPT OF DEFENSE, DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE, FA8819 SPECIAL PROGRAMS DIR SMC SP
- Place of Performance: El Segundo, CA
Evaluation
This RFI aims to gather information on existing integration expertise with the ESPAStar-D platform, capabilities for integrating multiple mission payloads, and associated acquisition/contract structure, technical, cost, and schedule feasibility. This is for market research and planning purposes only.
Additional Notes
The attached document, "Rooster 6 Integration Support_RFI 10FEB26.pdf," is a protected PDF file. Responders will need a compatible PDF reader to access its content. The details provided in the XML description serve as the primary source of information for this RFI.