OBJECTIVE
The United States Space Force, through the Space Development Agency (SDA), seeks to develop an adaptive, knowledge-guided test-planning capability to serve as a decision aid in support of Test & Evaluation (T&E) activities for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). PWSA is a continuously evolving constellation in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) designed to deliver resilient, threat-responsive capabilities to the joint force. Given the rapid, tranche-based deployment of capabilities under SDA's spiral development model, traditional compliance-based test strategies are insufficient. This effort aims to prototype a modern test framework that can:
- Continuously update understanding of system performance using real-time test data
- Quantify expected knowledge gain relative to resource cost for each test
- Dynamically re-plan test sequences to prioritize high-utility activities and truncate low-value ones
The solution should incorporate probabilistic reasoning (e.g., Bayesian inference), integration of synthetic and live test data, and multi-objective utility models aligned with mission priorities (e.g., latency, resiliency, throughput). It should also support open APIs and modular architecture to ensure compatibility with SDA's digital infrastructure. Ultimately, this capability will enable smarter, faster, and more resource-efficient test campaigns that support the operational agility of the PWSA and its expanding mission scope.
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 United States Space Force, through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is responsible for orchestrating the development and fielding of the Department of Defense's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) a resilient, threat-driven constellation of sensing and data transport satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Built on a spiral development model, PWSA is deployed in two-year tranches, requiring a flexible and adaptive approach to Test and Evaluation (T&E) that aligns with rapid acquisition timelines and continuous operational deployment. This topic seeks innovative solutions that adapt and extend test planning frameworks to support dynamic T&E activities for proliferated LEO architectures like PWSA. Solutions of interest should leverage knowledge-guided, sequential test planning methods capable of:
- Continuously updating knowledge of system performance as test outcomes are collected
- Quantifying the expected knowledge gain relative to test cost or resource usage
- Dynamically re-planning test sequences to focus on high-value activities while truncating low-yield or redundant tests
Of particular interest are solutions incorporating Bayesian probability theory to integrate priors, synthetic data, and live test results into an evolving, uncertainty-aware knowledge base that informs future test selections. The intent is to enable smarter and more agile test planning that can prioritize the most impactful test actions based on evolving system knowledge and operational priorities. Proposed solutions should demonstrate clear applicability to the unique demands of SDA's rapid and iterative space acquisition model and facilitate integration into evolving digital infrastructure for space system development and validation.
PHASE I
This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, Phase I awards will not be made for this topic. The applicant is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct-to-Phase-II (D2P2) proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a Phase I-type effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-mission fit between the proposed solution and a potential U.S. Air Force (USAF) and/or USSF stakeholder. The applicant should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the U.S. Department of Air Force (DAF) customer and end-user. The feasibility study should have:
Clearly identified the potential stakeholders of the adapted solution for solving the USAF and/or USSF need(s).
Described the pathway to integrating with DAF operations, to include how the applicant plans to accomplish core technology development, navigate applicable regulatory processes, and integrate with other relevant systems and/or processes.
Describe if and how the solution can be used by other U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) or Governmental customers.
PHASE II
Phase II will focus on maturing a knowledge-guided, sequential test planning framework and tailoring it to the unique challenges of proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) architectures, such as the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). The objective is to transition a prototype capability into an operationally relevant tool that can support adaptive, data-informed Test and Evaluation (T&E) activities across SDA's evolving satellite constellations. Key activities may include:
Adapting an existing prototype framework to the PWSA T&E environment:
Evolve the sequential test-planning core Bayesian or equivalent by calibrating priors, likelihoods, and multi-objective utility functions to reflect key performance parameters (KPPs) such as latency, resiliency, and throughput.
Define open APIs and data models in collaboration with SDA stakeholders and subject matter experts to ensure interoperability with existing and future digital systems.
Architect a containerized, microservices-based toolkit capable of ingesting live and synthetic PWSA data, updating probabilistic models, computing utility, and recommending next-best test actions.
Use case development and scenario selection:
Collaborate with SDA to identify and refine 3 4 representative test scenarios (e.g., cross-link validation, latency testing, or constellation coverage verification).
Assemble and curate synthetic or surrogate datasets to support development and evaluation.
Prototype demonstration and refinement:
Integrate the solution with a representative digital or hardware-in-the-loop environment.
Conduct live evaluations, collect stakeholder feedback, and refine the capability accordingly.
Transition planning and documentation:
Produce detailed documentation including system architecture, technical design, user guides, API references, and training materials.
Develop a phased rollout plan outlining the strategy for transition into broader use across SDA's operational framework.
The successful Phase II outcome will be a validated and adaptable test planning capability that aligns with SDA's agile acquisition model and delivers measurable value in supporting performance assurance across rapidly deployed satellite systems.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS
Phase III will focus on transitioning the adaptive, decision-centric test planning capability into operational use across the Space Development Agency's (SDA) Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) and other proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) constellations. The effort will continue maturing the prototype into a production-grade capability that supports real-time test planning, dynamic resource optimization, and performance validation across government and commercial mission contexts. Key activities may include:
- Operational Integration: Scale the system architecture and performance to support persistent test and evaluation across live SDA systems and ground infrastructure. Integrate seamlessly with SDA's digital backbone, data pipelines, and command and control systems.
- Decision Support at Scale: Expand the decision-aid framework to support concurrent test campaigns across multiple mission areas, dynamically allocating resources and test focus based on utility analysis and evolving knowledge.
- Commercialization & Broader Transition: Adapt the capability for commercial space operators deploying pLEO constellations or operating in agile mission environments. Demonstrate interoperability with other DoD agencies and potential coalition partners to support joint operations.
- Sustainment & ROI: Establish mechanisms for system sustainment, support, and iterative refinement based on user feedback. Develop scalable licensing or deployment models to enable long-term use and return on investment.
The overarching goal of Phase III is to deliver a robust, flexible, and operationally embedded test planning capability that strengthens mission assurance, reduces cost and timeline burdens for system validation, and provides a foundation for continuous improvement of space-based sensing and transport networks.
REFERENCES
Space Development Agency Factsheet, Space Development Agency 2024. https://www.sda.mil/home/work-with-us/resources/.
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