Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL)   2

The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is exploring point-to-point space transportation capability for DOD logistics. Based on the advertised commercial capability and business objectives for point-to-point space transportation, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is currently assessing emerging commercial rocket capability under the DAF Rocket Cargo Vanguard program, and the potential to quickly transport DOD materiel to ports across the globe. To this end, the Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics (REGAL) program will explore the use of commercially-advertised rocket launch systems for rapid point-to-point (PTP) space transportation and agile global logistics. The goal is to field a capability that can deliver DoD cargo anywhere on the planet in less than one hour through service-type contracts similar to agreements DoD uses today with commercial airlines. Expected missions include emergency resupply to restore loss of mission capability, humanitarian relief, disaster relief, and ultimately routine and affordable transport of cargo to select DOD ports across the world. No funding will be invested in developing commercial rocket systems. Please refer to the Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) attachment for additional information.

The ARA does not solicit proposals. Individual requirements known as Call(s) for Proposals will be issued against the ARA. Each Call for Proposals will contain the specific requirements and proposal submission dates. Unless otherwise stated in a specific Call, all other requirements are listed within the ARA.

This initial announcement includes two (2) Calls for Proposals. Call 001 "Point-to-Point Capability and Operational Demonstrations" and Call 002 "Point-to-Point Rocket Demonstrations". Please refer to each respective attachment for additional information regarding specific requirements.

Offerors should be alert for any ARA updates or future Call(s) for Proposals solicited as an amendment to this notice. This ARA shall remain open until 1 July 2027.

Background
The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is issuing this solicitation under the Advanced Research Announcement FA8650-21-S-9307 to explore point-to-point (PTP) space transportation using commercial rockets for DoD logistics. The goal is to assess the feasibility and operational capability of large commercial rockets for PTP operations, aiming to achieve operational flexibility, availability, and affordability similar to current agreements with U.S. Transportation Command.

Work Details
The contract involves conducting rocket launch experiments to determine the feasibility of commercial rockets for PTP space transportation. Tasks include demonstrating rocket launch, flight, and landing operations either in a single experiment or multiple experiments. This includes measuring performance parameters such as ground operation timelines, rocket trajectory, external plume environment, and cargo bay conditions. The experiments should demonstrate capabilities for both 2-way global logistics between established launch pads and 1-way rapid resupply or disaster response missions to remote sites. Offerors are encouraged to propose innovative approaches that meet these objectives.

Period of Performance
The estimated period of performance is approximately 18-33 months, including 15-30 months for technical efforts and an additional 3 months for preparation and review of the final report. The project kickoff should be no earlier than October 2021, with technical efforts concluding by December 2027.

Place of Performance
The place of performance includes established CONUS or OCONUS launch pads and potentially remote landing locations without established infrastructure.