PROJECTED CMMC LEVEL REQUIREMENT
Level 2 (Self)
TECHNOLOGY AREAS
Materials
MODERNIZATION PRIORITIES
Sustainment & Logistics
KEYWORDS
Autonomous Cargo Logistics for Space; AI-Driven Cargo Management System; Autonomous Space Mobility & Sustainment; Digital Twin for Space Logistics Optimization; Cybersecure AI Logistics Framework
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this effort is to develop and assess the feasibility of an Autonomous Space Cargo Network (ASCN) centered on Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to modernize cargo handling and logistics operations at the Space Joint Movement Complex (SJMC) and across the Department of War's (DoW) space mobility enterprise. The ASCN will prioritize robotic mobility, autonomous cargo transport, and modular robotic integration, enabling real-time cargo movement, autonomous load execution, and resilient logistics in contested and commercial environments. Supporting technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) for task orchestration and digital twins for system modeling, will be used to evaluate AMR coordination, predictive maintenance, and system optimization. This effort will establish the foundational architecture and performance requirements for a scalable, cybersecure, and interoperable logistics framework for future space sustainment missions.
ITAR
The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.
DESCRIPTION
The SJMC is envisioned as the central logistics hub for DoW space operations, supporting rapid deployment, sustainment, and agile mobility. Current cargo handling and logistics processes are heavily manual, lack real-time adaptability, and are not optimized for space-based supply chains or contested logistics environments. To address these capability gaps, the ASCN will deliver a hardware-centric logistics automation platform built around Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). The ASCN will combine autonomous robotics, intelligent decision-support, and digital twin technology to enable full-spectrum cargo management from warehouse to orbital interface while increasing speed, precision, and resilience. This effort will lay the foundation for a modular, scalable space logistics infrastructure aligned with U.S. Space Force (USSF) sustainment strategy. Key capabilities include:
Autonomous Cargo Handling & Transport Optimization
Robotic forklifts, pallet movers, and modular AMRs for autonomous loading/unloading
Sensor-rich navigation systems for dynamic obstacle avoidance and precision docking
Fleet coordination for multi-robot cargo movement across terrestrial and orbital logistics node
AI-Driven Logistics Command & Control
AI used for task orchestration, load prioritization, and mission responsiveness
Integration with the Spaceport of the Future's Common Operating Picture (SPOF COP)
Machine Learning for Mission Adaptability
Predictive analytics for resource positioning and contingency planning
Visibility and orchestration across all classes of supply
Commercial & Military Logistics Interoperability
Compatibility with U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), Space Systems Command (SSC), Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), and commercial launch providers
Joint protocol development for space cargo integration
Cybersecure & Resilient Robotics Architecture
Blockchain-secured logistics tracking and tamper prevention
Quantum-resistant algorithms and Zero Trust cybersecurity framework
This effort will lay the foundation for a future-ready, modular, and scalable space logistics infrastructure, aligned with U.S. Space Force (USSF) sustainment strategy and capable of supporting both terrestrial and orbital cargo networks.
PHASE I
The objective of Phase I is to develop a conceptual design and functional prototype for an AMR-based ASCN system that integrates robotic cargo handling and logistics optimization for space-focused missions and/or environments. Phase I will focus on system architecture, workflow modeling, early prototyping, and integration requirements not full system development. Technical approach considerations include:
Simulate AMR-enhanced cargo workflows within the SJMC, focusing on load planning and routing
Design and model robotic automation frameworks for autonomous cargo handling and dynamic load stabilization
Assess integration with DoW logistics platforms and commercial space operations
Conduct stakeholder engagements to refine system requirements
Execute preliminary load balance and maneuverability testing using 463L pallets
Perform energy efficiency and power requirement analyses
Phase I deliverables include:
Conceptual design document detailing AMR system architecture, and integration pathways.
Initial prototype demonstration showcasing cargo management logic, load balancing, and sensing capabilities.
Feasibility study covering integration potential with DoW systems, environmental resilience, scalability, and power/energy assessments.
Phase II roadmap outlining test campaigns, system modifications for larger payloads, and milestones for operational prototype development.
PHASE II
The Phase II objective is to design, develop, and demonstrate a fully operational prototype of the ASCN capable of autonomous cargo handling, intelligent logistics coordination, and mission adaptability in contested, austere logistics, or space mission focused environments. This phase will validate the system's ability to improve cargo throughput, reduce human intervention, and integrate with both DoW and commercial logistics systems. Technical focus areas include:
Build and integrate a full-scale ASCN prototype with autonomous robotic handlers, real-time cargo identification, and secure communications.
Implement advanced AI models for adaptive cargo prioritization, dynamic routing, and autonomous load planning.
Integrate with existing DoW logistics platforms such as USTRANSCOM, the Spaceport of the Future's Common Operating Procedure (COP) Logistics Module, and commercial systems where applicable.
Conduct operational testing in representative logistics environments (e.g., Space Launch facilities, Distribution Hubs).
Collect performance data for load accuracy, handling speed, mission responsiveness, energy usage, and system reliability.
Demonstrate predictive maintenance and mission adaptability functions under simulated disruption scenarios.
Phase II deliverables include:
Fully functional AMR-based ASCN prototype
Operational test campaign report with performance metrics and logistics improvements
AI performance evaluation for AMR coordination and decision support
Integration documentation with SSC, DLA, USTRANSCOM, and commercial platforms
Phase III transition plan, outlining commercialization strategy, scaling pathways, and targeted end-user adoption timelines.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS
For Phase III, military applications include:
Deploy AMRs across USSF logistics operations for autonomous cargo handling
Integrate with DoW logistics ecosystems for multi-domain cargo movement
Provide real-time logistics decision support for Joint Logistics planners
Enhance sustainment for Agile Combat Employment (ACE) and distributed operations
Support mission rehearsal and planning via integration with Spaceport of the Future Common Operating Picture (COP) Logistics Module
Commercial applications include:
Offer AMR-based cargo handling and warehouse robotics to aerospace and space launch sectors
Enable robotic logistics optimization for commercial supply chains and intermodal hubs
Deliver cybersecure, AI-managed inventory and transport systems to spaceports and research facilities
Position AMRs for future lunar and orbital supply chain networks
Transition plan considerations include:
Military Transition through operational implementation at SSC logistics nodes and USTRANSCOM-managed facilities, with support from DLA for broad sustainment integration.
Commercial Licensing to logistics automation firms, aerospace manufacturers, and spaceport operators, supported by targeted pilot deployments.
Technology Integration with enterprise AI/machine learning (ML) platforms used in military logistics and commercial warehouse management systems.
The anticipated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) for each phase is the following:
Phase I: TRL 3 to 4 - Analytical and laboratory-based proof of concept
Phase II: TRL 5 to 6 - System/subsystem prototype demonstrated in relevant environment
Phase III: TRL 7 to 9 - System demonstration in operational environment and full deployment.
REFERENCES
U.S. Space Force. (2023, March). Mission sustainment strategy. Office of the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Operations, Cyber, and Nuclear (SF/S4O). https://www.dau.edu/sites/default/files/webform/documents/26816/2023_%20USSF%20Mission%20Sustainment%20Strategy%20efile_signatures.pdf.
United States Space Force. (2022, December). Space Doctrine Publication 4-0: Sustainment. Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM). https://www.starcom.spaceforce.mil/Portals/2/SDP%204-0%20Sustainment%20(Signed).pdf?ver=jFc_4BiAkDjJdc49LmESgg%3D%3D.
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