Description
This Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Advanced Research Announcement seeks innovative solutions to create a Secure‑by‑Design Space Vehicle (STAR‑FISH) that hardens spacecraft against cyber threats. The effort is organized as a two‑step process: submit a white paper (by 13 Nov 2026) followed by a potential RFP for a 51‑month contract. The contractor will design and build a “flat‑sat” prototype, develop a cyber‑range, integrate Cyber‑Hardened Satellite Software supplied by the government, conduct functional and cyber‑effectiveness testing, develop CONOPS/COAs and a user interface, and ultimately demonstrate the system on‑orbit. Funding is estimated at $14 M total (FY 2027‑2030), with multiple award possibilities.
• Design and construct a flat‑sat hardware platform and associated cyber‑range.
• Integrate and test CHSS‑hardened flight software, produce T&E and CONOPs reports.
• Perform ground‑based and on‑orbit demonstrations, delivering final technical reporting.
• Work closely with MIT Lincoln Laboratory (software hardening) and AFRL Kirtland facilities; must handle CUI to Secret classification.