Low Earth Orbit
Closed Pre-Solicitation Posted
- Solicitation number
- 70FA3025I00000007
- Agency
-
FEMA Information Technology Section
Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security
- Responses due
- Set-aside
- No set-aside
Opportunity facts
- NAICS code
- 517410 Satellite Telecommunications
- Place of performance
- Washington, District of Columbia 20002, United States
Notice details come from SAM.gov. Updated .
About this opportunity
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is conducting market research to identify Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communication solutions for emergency response operations. Through this Request for Information (RFI), FEMA seeks to address communication challenges in disaster areas where traditional terrestrial infrastructure may be compromised or unavailable. The agency is specifically interested in portable ground station equipment that can be deployed without specialized tools, operates on standard commercial power, and provides consistent high-speed internet connectivity across domestic and international regions. Key evaluation criteria will include network coverage, redundancy, data service levels, security features, performance in austere environments, and comprehensive support capabilities. Responses to this RFI are due by January 22, 2025, with the understanding that the government will not reimburse respondents for preparation costs.
The pre-solicitation notice indicates no specific set-aside designations for this opportunity, and while Starlink terminals are currently used in one FEMA program, no incumbent contractor is definitively named. The research is categorized under Satellite Telecommunications (NAICS 517410) and Communications Security Equipment (PSC 5810), suggesting potential complex technical requirements. Although no explicit budget range is provided, the RFI implies a need for robust, adaptable communication solutions that can function in emergency scenarios with minimal infrastructure. The procurement appears focused on comprehensive satellite communication systems that can be rapidly deployed by emergency response teams, with an emphasis on reliability, portability, and quick implementation in challenging environments.
Notice text
This RFI is for research purposes only.
The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) currently deploys several communications capabilities in response to declared emergencies. Many of FEMA’s currently utilized communication solutions are centered around traditional methods. Geostationary satellite systems have been deployed, but introduce correspondingly long latencies. Additionally, provisioning of a router and circuit to disaster sites can take days to weeks. For the last few years FEMA has deployed a FIPS compliant cellular solution which utilizes an array of high-gain antennae, however, these devices are reliant on terrestrial communication with cell towers, which can be compromised or unavailable in disaster areas due to the nature of the disaster. LEO satellite communications will fill in the gap by providing consistent high-speed internet connectivity that is less likely to be impacted by weather, terrain, and disasters. One of our programs currently utilizes Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Starlink terminals.
This is a market research tool being used to determine the availability of Low Earth Orbit technologies that can provide these capabilities and services. FEMA is seeking contracting / acquisitions sources to meet this requirement.
The government will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by respondents in the preparation and submision of responses to this Request for Infrmation (RFI).
Files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| RFI LEO.pdf |
Similar open opportunities
| Opportunity | Agency | Set-aside | Responses due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Executive Aircraft Lease | Federal Emergency Management Agency | No set-aside | |
| Air Operations Support Contract | Federal Emergency Management Agency | No set-aside |
On GovTribe
Work this opportunity
- Track it in your pipeline
- Find teaming partners
- Similar opportunities
- Ask GovTribe AI about this opportunity