Space Data Network (SDN) Mission Operations Center (MOC)
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 United States Space Force Space Systems Command (USSF SSC) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for the Space Data Network (SDN) Mission Operations Center (MOC). This RFI seeks industry input on potential approaches for designing and implementing an MOC to manage and operate the SDN, a resilient network integrating diverse space-based and ground infrastructures. Responses are due by 16:00 PT on February 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
The SDN MOC will be responsible for procurement, lifecycle management, technology refreshes, pLEO providers' services management, network performance monitoring, orchestrating space transport network connectivity, user onboarding, information assurance processing, and sustainment. It will provision, control, and manage SDN transport services, maintain network health, process service requests, and coordinate with satellite providers. The MOC capabilities will be developed incrementally in two phases: Phase 1 for S-band and Broadband User Services, and Phase 2 for SEP User Services.
Key Information Sought
Respondents should provide detailed information on:
- SDN MOC Design & Implementation: Scalability, open standards, incremental expansion, architecture for future integration, software architecture (including COTS vs. development), time synchronization, QoS/QoE, network orchestration, observability tools, and support overview.
- System Design Trades: Cloud vs. on-premises MOC, MOC-managed vs. network provider-managed PoPs, cost drivers, information assurance architecture, and security capabilities.
- Schedules & Costs: Assessment of development and production schedules, and estimation of development and operational costs.
- Commerciality: Extent to which the solution meets the commercial definition in FAR 2.101.
- Clarifying Questions: Any questions to help clarify the MOC scope.
Submission Requirements
Interested parties must submit a white paper (max 10 pages) and an optional single PowerPoint slide. Submissions must include business name, size standard, submitter's information, business address, CAGE Code, Unique Entity ID, and points of contact. Responses are to be sent via email to Melanie Gipson (primary) at melanie.gipson@spaceforce.mil and Brandon Villalpando (alternate) at brandon.villalpando@spaceforce.mil. Proprietary information must be clearly marked.
Important Notes
This is an RFI for planning purposes only and does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or a commitment to contract. The Government will not pay for response costs. The NAICS code is 541715 (Aerospace Research and Development) with a 1000-employee size standard. Participation from small and small disadvantaged businesses is highly encouraged. Contractor personnel will require a minimum TS/SCI clearance. Foreign firms are not eligible as prime contractors but may participate as subcontractors. FFRDCs and other technical support staff may review submissions.