Bid guide
How to bid on Capacity on a UHF-capable On-orbit MEO Satellite from the DEPT of the Air Force
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Air Force is seeking information from companies that can provide access to bandwidth on a commercially owned and operated UHF-capable MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) satellite. This is a Request for Information (RFI), meaning the agency is gathering details, not yet asking for bids on a contract.
The purpose of this effort is to test MEO UHF communications, demonstrate interoperability with existing GEO (Geosynchronous Earth Orbit) constellations, and explore options for future replacement or expansion of GEO UHF services. The government is interested in existing satellites, payloads, and communication links that can provide service as soon as possible, with an initial capability by 2030 being useful, but earlier options are strongly encouraged.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This RFI was published on July 24, 2026. Responses are due by August 10, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions are typically not considered.
Since this is an RFI, the deadline is for submitting your company's information and capabilities. The agency will review these submissions to help shape future procurement strategies. There is no contract award directly from an RFI.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for companies with expertise in satellite technology, particularly those that own and operate UHF-capable MEO satellites. Firms that can provide immediate or very near-term access to such bandwidth are especially relevant.
This falls under the technology category, specifically for space-based communication services and related infrastructure.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full details and prepare your response, you need to view the original source on the government portal. Click “View original source” to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all supporting documents, though for some bids, this is not required.
Tips for preparing a competitive RFI response
Even though this is not a bid for a contract, a well-crafted RFI response can position your company favorably for future opportunities. Clearly articulate your existing capabilities, focusing on how your MEO UHF system meets the agency's stated goals for testing, interoperability, and potential future augmentation or replacement of GEO UHF services.
Highlight any existing space vehicles, payloads, and communication links that can provide service immediately or as soon as possible. If your solution offers an on-orbit capability significantly earlier than 2030, emphasize this. Ensure your response addresses the corrected frequency bands mentioned in Amendment 1 and refers to the updated attachment for full details.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of the Air Force; the original posting controls.