Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific Relay Ground Station Hardware and Software

The Department of the Navy Information Warfare Systems Command established this Master IDIQ on April 24, 2025 for the design, procurement, development, integration, and testing of advanced technology Relay Ground Station (RGS) hardware and software capabilities supporting uplink and downlink communications to space-based infrared and polar-orbiting satellite systems. Ordering authority remains open through April 23, 2030. The vehicle was structured as a multiple-award IDIQ limited to no more than three prime contractors, with orders competed under FAR 16.505(a) using a mix of Cost Plus Fixed Fee, Cost, and Firm Fixed Price pricing arrangements.

Only two task orders have been awarded to date, both on the initial vehicle establishment date. Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation and Lockheed Martin Corp each hold one order, split equally at $3.5 thousand combined potential value each. Both task orders represent a minimum guarantee obligation of $3.5 thousand with a ceiling of $3.5 thousand under Cost Plus Fixed Fee pricing, expiring April 23, 2030. Combined potential value across the vehicle is $7 thousand, which is entirely obligated.

The modest task-order volume and nominal dollar values suggest these initial orders may be placeholder or limited-scope initial tasking pending substantive requirement definition at the program level. The RGS work encompasses design and development of facilities, infrastructure, ground terminal equipment, and communications and networking equipment at multiple worldwide locations in support of space command operations. Individual task orders are expected to address specific site requirements in greater detail through a performance work statement issued at the delivery-order level.

With nearly four years of ordering authority remaining and only initial task activity visible, this vehicle remains early in its lifecycle. The split award between two tier-one primes and exclusive Department of the Navy funding suggest concentrated customer and competitive focus. Pursuit viability depends on incumbent prime positioning and the anticipated scope and timing of follow-on task orders for specific RGS site development and support work.