Space Force seeking information for CASR framework

The Space Force has issued a request for information for a Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve Framework to identify potential sources and develop an acquisition strategy, according to a notice posted July 25.

The CASR is a similar model to the Air Force Civil Reserve Air Fleet program to carry out transport missions via commercial airlines during a conflict, according to the RFI.

“The Space Force is actively investigating the viability of implementing a similar model for space capabilities under the CASR construct,” the Space Systems Command Commercial Space Office noted.

The CASR framework focuses on ensuring the Space Force can enhance the capabilities of the commercial space industry to enhance the resilience, capacity and effectiveness of its national security architecture.

The operations under CASR are divided into three levels: Level 1 will include day-to-day operations; Level 2 will include priority operations driven by the Defense Department and other government agencies due to regional conflict or significant crisis along with Level 1 responsibilities; and Level 3 will be full CASR execution headed by the president or defense secretary caused by war, major conflict, national or international emergency along with Level 1 and Level 2 responsibilities.

Additionally, the framework will have nine elements that include developing the concept of operations; interoperability and integration; risk mitigation; budget integration; cost-effectiveness and speed; facilitating commercial partnerships; cybersecurity; reviewing established policy; regulatory and legal conditions; and reviewing contractual structures.

In February, the service hosted a reserve industry day to discuss CASR with the Defense Department and industry, the RFI document states.