Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB) Request for Information (RFI) for Space Launch Complex-9 (SLC-9) Out grant
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 Department of the Air Force (DAF), specifically Space Launch Delta 30 (SLD 30) at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), CA, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for a real property outgrant at Space Launch Complex 9 (SLC-9). This RFI seeks interest from United States Commercial Providers to finance, design, construct, operate, and maintain a small/medium vertical space launch vehicle capability to support Department of War, Federal, and commercial entities. This is not a FAR-governed acquisition but a non-FAR real estate transaction under 10 U.S.C. § 2667. Responses are due by July 9, 2026.
Opportunity Details
SLD 30 aims to maximize assured access to space by developing SLC-9, an undeveloped 150-acre site at VSFB, for small/medium class launch vehicles (payload capacity 2,000 kg - 20,000 kg). The selected respondent will enter discussions for a real property outgrant, responsible for all necessary infrastructure improvements and associated costs, including appraisals, legal descriptions, and environmental assessments (NEPA, EBS). A valid Commercial Space Operations Support Agreement (CSOSA) with USSF is required prior to RFI response and final property transaction.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on the respondent's ability to demonstrate:
- Small/Medium Class Vehicle Capability: List intended launch vehicles for SLC-9.
- Sufficient Financial Maturity: Documentation of current financial resources and plans for investing private capital in SLC-9 infrastructure.
- Maximize Benefit to Space Industry and U.S. Economy: Describe unique vehicle capabilities and benefits for DoW, industry, and economy.
- Highest Technical Maturity: Projected milestones for operational readiness within approximately three years of outgrant, including proven flight history or reliability plans.
- Maximize Productivity with Limited Adverse Impacts: Details on projected launch rates, flight azimuths, mass to orbit, fuel types, hazard areas, and mitigation strategies for neighboring operations and VSFB infrastructure.
Submission Requirements
Interested parties must submit a detailed response, limited to 30 pages, addressing their interest and ability to meet the RFI criteria. Submissions are to be transmitted via DODSAFE File Safe protocol. Oral submissions are not accepted.
Key Dates & Contacts
- Response Due Date: July 9, 2026
- Published Date: June 5, 2026
- Primary Contact: Mary Ma’a, mary.maa@spaceforce.mil, (805) 605-6736
- Secondary Contact: Khrystal Jure, khrystal.jure.1@spaceforce.mil, 8056058263