FA9453-21-S-0001-Call016 - Space Strategic Technology Institute (SSTI) - Space Cyber-Cognitive Overmatch (SCCO)

Tender summary

The ultimate objective of this initiative is to create disruptive, cutting-edge technologies that fundamentally alter the strategic landscape of space operations. While proposed solutions must improve overall system resilience and strictly optimize size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints, their true value will be judged by their capacity to enable entirely new operational concepts. The goal is not seeking merely incremental upgrades; it is for transformative capabilities spanning the cyber and electromagnetic (EM) spectrums, the entire distributed architecture (space, ground, and links), and advanced human-machine teaming. Crucially, this disruption cannot come at the cost of current mission viability. For example, a novel cyber defense mechanism will be deemed unviable if its computational overhead degrades primary satellite operations. Consequently, proposals will be rigorously evaluated on two interconnected fronts: their potential to achieve true cognitive and cyber overmatch, and their realistic maturity for transitioning out of the laboratory and into government program offices or industry applications.

What to check before bidding

• Issued by DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE.AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND.AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY.FA9453 AFRL RVK.
• Located in United States.
• Source notice 8543b8563c104c63907aa120618f6d08 on SAM.gov.
• Notice published 30 Jun 2026; Tenqual indexed it 1 Jul 2026.
• Deadline listed as 13 Aug 2026.
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