Space Force releases draft STEP 2.0 RFP

The Space Force is seeking a range of space vehicles for its Space Test Experimental Platform 2.0 program, according to a draft request for proposals posted by the service today.

The RFP specifies that the STEP 2.0 program office intends to issue a multiple-award, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with separate delivery orders that will have “the ability to execute DOs aligning payload, space vehicle, and launch vehicle schedules.”

According to the RFP, the spacecraft for delivery orders will range in size from 12U CubeSats to Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle Secondary Payload Adapter class or “any size in between.”

The program office will define payload requirements within delivery orders, the RFP adds, and the spacecraft will operate in either low-earth or geosynchronous orbit as a class D system.

Officials previously announced a virtual industry day for STEP 2.0, which stated that vendors would be responsible to construct the spacecraft, provide payload and launch integration and supply on-orbit services for a minimum of 365 days. Though originally planned for Oct. 25-26, the event is now scheduled for Oct. 25-27.

The spacecraft will conduct technological and scientific experiments that will be overseen by the Innovation and Prototyping Acquisition Delta at Kirtland Air Force Base, NM, the industry day announcement states.

Following the Oct. 25-27 industry day, officials will publish a revised draft RFP to seek feedback from vendors before posting a final RFP at an unspecified date, the draft STEP 2.0 solicitation says.