Save the Date: Strategic SATCOM Virtual Kick Off

The Department of the Air Force has issued a Special Notice announcing a Strategic SATCOM Virtual Kick Off meeting scheduled for January 8, 2026, from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. PST. This special notice is designed to introduce industry partners to an upcoming Reverse Industry Day (RID) and related procurement activities focused on satellite communications capabilities. The government is inviting defense contractors and technology companies to participate in a structured engagement process that will culminate in a major industry event in March 2026. The virtual kick-off will feature senior military and civilian leaders from the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Space Force units, and Space Force headquarters discussing upcoming timelines and procurement opportunities. Registration for the virtual kick-off meeting must be completed by January 5, 2026, through the provided government forms portal.

The primary objective of this initiative is to allow industry partners to showcase potential Strategic SATCOM prototypes for hosted or free-flyer satellite use across multiple orbital regimes while understanding government requirements and challenges. Key deadlines include a Request for Information (RFI) release in mid-January 2026, with submissions due by mid-February 2026, followed by the Reverse Industry Day on March 23-24, 2026, at the SATShow Conference in Washington, D.C., where contractors can participate in one-on-one meetings with government representatives. Eligible participants are defense contractors and technology companies specializing in space, communications, and intelligence domains. The opportunity provides a unique platform for industry to engage directly with senior government officials and demonstrate innovative satellite communications solutions. Interested parties should contact Captain Gerald Hills and Ms. Caroline Chewning at SYD88.SX.RID@spaceforce.mil for additional information.