Defense AgencyCMMC Required

Space ForceUnited States Space Force

Part of Department of Defense (DoD)

Annual Spend

$30B+ annually

CMMC Level

Level 2-3

Key Offices

SpRCO, SSC, SDA

Overview

The U.S. Space Force, the newest military branch, procures over $30 billion annually for satellite systems, launch services, space domain awareness, and ground systems. The Space Rapid Capabilities Office (SpRCO) and Space Systems Command (SSC) lead most acquisition programs.

Mission Focus & Priorities

Space Force's FY2026 priorities center on space domain awareness, resilient satellite constellations, and rapid technology integration. The Space Rapid Capabilities Office (SpRCO) leads the service's top priority: deploying the Resilient GPS program and Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) satellites. Space Systems Command (SSC) drives the largest contract activity with over $20B annually, managing National Security Space Launch (NSSL), Protected Tactical Enterprise Service (PTES), and the Enterprise Ground Services (EGS) program. The Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) oversees simulation and training modernization. Growing budget areas include AI/ML for space object tracking through the Space Domain Awareness R&D program ($2.8B over 5 years), quantum-resistant encryption for satellite communications, and on-orbit servicing capabilities. The Guardian Spirit initiative emphasizes commercial space integration and hybrid cloud architectures. CMMC 2.0 significantly impacts Space Force procurement as most contracts involve Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) related to satellite operations, orbital mechanics, and space surveillance data. The Space Force's accelerated acquisition approach through SpRCO requires vendors to demonstrate rapid prototyping capabilities while maintaining cybersecurity compliance. Key emerging areas include cislunar space operations, directed energy systems for satellite defense, and autonomous satellite constellation management systems that require Level 3 CMMC certification due to their critical infrastructure designation.

Budget & Spending Trends

Space Force's FY2025 budget of $29.4B increases to $33.7B in FY2026, representing a 14.6% growth driven by space superiority investments. Launch services (NAICS 336414) see the largest growth at $4.2B (+18%), followed by satellite manufacturing (NAICS 334220) at $8.9B (+12%). Research and development services (NAICS 541712) grow to $6.1B (+15%), while traditional IT services (NAICS 541511) remain flat at $2.8B. The prime-to-subcontract ratio shifts toward larger primes, now 72:28 versus last year's 68:32, as Space Force consolidates vendors for better oversight. Small business set-asides represent 31% of contract actions but only 18% of total dollars, with SBIR Phase III awards growing significantly. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) awards increased 23% to $890M, primarily in cybersecurity and space operations support. HUBZone contracts declined 8% to $340M due to fewer qualified firms in key geographic areas. Geographic concentration intensifies around Los Angeles Air Force Base (34% of contract dollars), Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado (22%), and Arlington, Virginia for headquarters functions (19%). The average contract size increased 28% to $47M, reflecting Space Force's preference for comprehensive capability packages over discrete services.

How to Win Contracts with Space Force

Space Force primarily utilizes specialized contract vehicles including NASA SEWP VI for IT hardware/software, GSA Alliant 2 for professional services, and the Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC) Other Transaction Authority for rapid prototyping. The Space and Missile Systems Center's Enterprise Acquisition Excellence division manages most major procurements, while SpRCO uses streamlined authorities for urgent capabilities. Search SAM.gov using NAICS 336414 (guided missile/space vehicle manufacturing), 541330 (engineering services), and 541511 (custom computer programming) combined with PSC codes D307 (IT software), R425 (engineering support), and Y1DA (space systems). Set filters for Space Force as the funding agency and contracts over $10M for prime opportunities. Successful teaming requires established space heritage - partner with Mentor-Protégé Program participants like Aerospace Corporation or MITRE. Past performance must demonstrate space-grade quality standards, security clearance management, and delivery in challenging environments. Typical procurement cycles run 18-24 months with Source Selection Evaluation Boards emphasizing technical approach (40%), past performance (35%), and cost realism (25%). This week, BD professionals should: (1) register for the Space Force Industry Day on February 15th, (2) review the Space Acquisition Council's updated guidance on commercial space partnerships, (3) assess CMMC readiness against new Space Force cybersecurity requirements, (4) identify teaming partners with active Secret facility clearances, (5) monitor SpEC membership opportunities for prototype-to-production pathways, and (6) evaluate current contracts for Space Force task order opportunities under existing IDIQs.

CMMC Requirements for Space Force Contractors

Space Force contracts require CMMC Level 2 for most satellite operations, ground systems, and space domain awareness programs due to CUI handling requirements. Level 3 certification is mandatory for critical infrastructure contracts including GPS, missile warning satellites, and nuclear command/control communications systems. The service accelerates CMMC implementation with clauses appearing in 78% of new solicitations by Q2 2025, ahead of DoD's general timeline. SpRCO leads early adoption, requiring CMMC assessments for all prototype contracts over $5M by January 2025. Subcontractor flowdown impacts are severe given Space Force's heavy reliance on commercial partners - prime contractors must ensure 100% supply chain compliance for components handling CUI. The service's zero-trust architecture initiative compounds CMMC requirements, demanding additional network segmentation and continuous monitoring capabilities. Space Systems Command established a dedicated CMMC Support Office providing contractor guidance and assessment coordination. Cost implications average 8-12% of contract value for initial CMMC implementation, with ongoing compliance costs at 3-4% annually. The Space Force's global operations model requires CMMC compliance at all contractor facilities worldwide, creating unique challenges for multinational teams. Evaluation criteria increasingly weight cybersecurity maturity, with CMMC readiness representing up to 20% of technical scores in recent solicitations. The service prioritizes vendors with existing CMMC assessments, creating competitive advantages for early adopters.

Top NAICS Codes

NAICS 336414 NAICS 541511 NAICS 541715 NAICS 541330 NAICS 334511

Common Contract Types

FFPCPFFOTASBIR

Key Procurement Offices

SpRCOSSCSDA

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find contracts with Space Force?

Search SAM.gov for active United States Space Force solicitations. Monitor the Space Force procurement forecast published annually. Register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and set up saved searches for relevant NAICS codes.

Does Space Force require CMMC?

Yes, United States Space Force requires CMMC certification for contracts involving CUI. Most contracts require Level 2-3. Contractors should begin the certification process well in advance of bidding.

What are the top NAICS codes for Space Force contracts?

The most commonly used NAICS codes for United States Space Force contracts include 336414, 541511, 541715, 541330, 334511. These codes cover the primary contracting areas for Space Force. Check SAM.gov for specific opportunities under each code.