The Space Development Agency has issued a notice seeking industry input for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture Tranche 3 Tracking, or T3TRK, Layer.
PWSA T3 Tracking Layer OTA Scope
According to the request for proposals notice posted on SAM.gov Monday the firm-fixed-price other transaction agreement covers the development of prototypes for the PWSA T3TRK. The OTA aims to fast-track the development of capabilities to continuously monitor the globe to detect, alert, track and identify hypersonic missile systems and other missile threats. Aside from monitoring capabilities, the T3TRK Layer is also intended to contribute to the defense against missiles.
The SDA intends to purchase at least 54 space vehicles equipped with infrared sensors that will be distributed across six orbital planes. The OTA also mentions the possible procurement of additional satellite and sensor payload prototypes to help refine the requirements and design of the constellation. Once fully operational, the T3 Tracking Layer will have an estimated 100 SVs in Low Earth Orbit.
The T3 Tracking Layer will build on the existing capabilities of the T1 and T2 layers with targeted technology, enhanced integration and calibration, broader coverage and more efficient space vehicle production. All space vehicles and communication systems will operate seamlessly with other PWSA SVs, including transport and custody layer SVs. They are also expected to operate in a common ground system. Furthermore, the T3 Layer aims to address the need to deliver low-latency data to in-theater weapon systems, enabling kill chain closure against challenging weapon systems.
The RFP follows the draft request for information released in February. Contractors interested in submitting their proposals have until May 22 to do so.
