Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) – U.S. Air Force
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The SPRINT Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is an open, long-running U.S. Air Force research program supporting the development of in-space propulsion technologies to improve spacecraft resiliency and counter satellite threats. The program funds studies, experiments, and R&D contracts across chemical, electric, and multi-mode propulsion systems through white paper submissions and targeted calls during the BAA’s open period.
How much funding is available?
Individual awards are anticipated to range from $100,000 to $10 million per contract, with no predefined minimum or maximum award size. Multiple awards are expected over the life of the BAA, subject to funding availability.
What could I use the funding for?
The SPRINT program seeks to improve the utility of spacecraft propulsion technology for resiliency applications. This includes, but is not limited to, a broad range of technologies, different degrees of development efforts, ground and/or space experiments, studies, and modeling and simulation activities. Topic areas of specific interest include:
• Chemical monopropellant thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems
• Chemical bipropellant thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems
• Electric propulsion thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems
• Multi-mode thrusters, thruster system components, and/or complete propulsion systems and their expected interactions with spacecraft systems
• Plume phenomenology including experimental and/or modelling and simulation (M&S) studies
• Mission utility of propulsion research concepts and any associated operational constructs and/or architectures
Some areas, or specific calls, associated with the SPRINT BAA may require access to classified information up to and including Top Secret, Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI).
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Beyond the direct contract funding, participation in the SPRINT program provides indirect benefits such as engagement with Air Force propulsion research stakeholders, opportunities to mature technologies to higher TRLs under government sponsorship, and visibility within the national security space R&D ecosystem through ongoing technical collaboration and review.
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
Submit white papers as soon as possible before existing funding is allocated. This is an open BAA with a 20-year open period. Funding decisions and award timing depend on proposal evaluation, successful negotiations, and the availability of funds. Specific calls may include defined proposal due dates and anticipated award timelines.
Where does this funding come from?
Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Aerospace Systems Directorate, and administered by the Air Force Test Center.
Who is eligible to apply?
This is an unrestricted solicitation. Small businesses are encouraged to apply. Foreign persons or foreign-owned firms are not eligible to propose.
What companies and projects are likely to win?
White papers and proposals are evaluated based on:
Alignment with the propulsion technology areas listed in the BAA
Relevance and interest of the research to Air Force needs
Availability of appropriate funding
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Some areas or calls may require access to classified information up to Top Secret / SCI. Certain projects may involve ITAR, EAR, OPSEC, and specific data rights requirements. Foreign ownership is prohibited, and classified or ITAR-restricted information must not be submitted without prior coordination.
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
Without BW&CO assistance, a typical white paper will take between 35-50 hours for first time applicants.
How can BW&CO help?
Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:
Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development
Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations
Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.
How much would BW&CO Charge?
Full support is available for the white paper for a $4,000 initial fee.
Fractional support is $300 per hour.
For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.
Additional Resources
See the solicitation here.