Bid guide
How to bid on RIDE Launch Services for the Space Systems Command
What the Space Force is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Space Force, through its Space Systems Command, is seeking Statements of Capability from industry for its RIDE (Rocket Systems Launch Program Innovative Delivery of Effects) acquisition strategy. This initiative aims to provide suborbital and orbital launch services, payload integration, vehicle development, research, testing, and operational support.
This is a significant opportunity for companies involved in space transportation and related activities. The RIDE program will succeed previous launch service contracts, offering a new generation of opportunities to support a wide range of government missions, including experimental, research, development, test and evaluation, and small operational launches.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
The deadline for submitting your Statement of Capability is October 09, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline for all submissions.
An industry day is scheduled for September 22–23, 2026, at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with virtual participation also available. If you wish to suggest topics for discussion at the industry day, those suggestions are due by September 15, 2026.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms with capabilities in space launch services, including orbital and suborbital launches, payload integration, and vehicle development. It also targets companies involved in research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities related to space.
The Space Force is considering two multiple-award contract vehicles: one for Space Transportation Services and commercial Space-Related Activity launch services (fixed-price), and another for non-commercial Space-Related Activity launch services (hybrid cost-reimbursement and fixed-price). Companies should assess their capabilities to pursue one or both of these potential vehicles.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full details and submit your Statement of Capability, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Click the designated link to open the opportunity.
If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, simply click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required for every bid.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When preparing your Statement of Capability, clearly articulate your firm's experience and expertise in both Space Transportation Services and Space-Related Activities. Highlight any past performance with similar government or commercial space missions.
Address how your capabilities align with the updated high-level requirements provided in Attachment 1 of the RFI. Emphasize your ability to support a wide variety of customer-driven requirements, from LEO integration to suborbital vehicle development. If attending the industry day, prepare questions that demonstrate your understanding of the RIDE strategy and your firm's potential contributions.
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 Space Systems Command; the original posting controls.