ROOSTER-6 Integration & Support RFI

Quick Summary

The Department of the Air Force's Space Systems Command (SSC) is conducting a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) for the ROOSTER-6 Integration & Support Contract. This RFI seeks information from potential sources capable of integrating a secondary payload ring/platform to host multiple payloads for national security missions. The government is particularly interested in expertise with the Northrup Grumman built ESPAStar-D platform. Responses are due by February 27, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. (Los Angeles, CA local time).

Purpose & Scope

SSC/SYD89/SYA is soliciting information to identify experienced integrators for a flexible and modular propulsive host satellite ring/platform. This platform will accommodate multiple separable and non-separable payloads for missions primarily in GEO orbit, with consideration for other orbital regimes. These missions will launch on National Security Space Launch (NSSL) vehicles. The RFI aims to gather data on existing integration expertise, acquisition/contract structures, and technical, cost, and schedule feasibility.

Key Requirements & Deliverables

The selected contractor will be responsible for:

• Fully integrating separable and non-separable payloads onto the host platform.
• Supporting standard space vehicle environmental testing of the integrated host ring/platform.
• Supporting launch and early on-orbit operations, including anomaly resolution.
• Operating the host ring/platform with a minimum operational design life of 2 years.
• Ensuring the propulsive host ring/platform can host at least six ESPAStar-D Class Payloads.
• Meeting all launch safety requirements, including coupled loads analysis, thermal analysis, and testing.
• Supporting payloads at various classification levels, up to and including TS/SCI and SAP, requiring appropriate personnel, facilities, and security.
• Demonstrating the ability to support late manifested payloads (less than L-12 months).
• Utilizing a Digital Engineering approach, including digital models and digital twin for analysis.

Contract Details

This is a Request for Information (RFI) only and does not constitute a solicitation. The government is seeking information on potential contracting structures and Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimates for specific efforts. Probable program milestones include an RFP release in early Summer 2026 and a contract award in early Fall 2026.

Submission & Evaluation

Interested offerors must submit a Statement of Capabilities (SOC), limited to 15 pages. Responses should include:

• Company information.
• ROM estimates for specific efforts.
• A summary of space integration and on-orbit support heritage.
• Recommended contract type and CLIN structure. Responses must be submitted via email by Friday, February 27, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. (Los Angeles, CA local time). All submitted information must be unclassified.

Eligibility & Set-Aside

This opportunity is Not a Set-Aside. The relevant NAICS codes are 336414 (Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing) and 541712 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)), both with a small business size standard of 1250 employees. Small and small disadvantaged businesses are encouraged to participate.

Additional Notes

This RFI is for planning purposes only. The government will not pay for any information or administrative costs incurred. Foreign firms will not be allowed to participate at the prime contractor level.