DIU - Deorbit as a Service

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

Act now — Responses due February 13, 2026 at 23:59:59 US/Eastern for Deorbit as a Service, a high-priority Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to solve a strategic orbital debris and space sustainability challenge. This solicitation funds scalable autonomous technologies that can deorbit unprepared satellites safely and reliably, reducing orbital congestion and enabling future space operations. This is a rare fast-paced opportunity to partner with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) using flexible Other Transaction Authority with potential follow-on production contracts without further competition — massive market potential.

How much funding would I receive?

The BAA does not specify a fixed award size; funding will depend on DIU’s evaluation and negotiation of selected prototypes under the CSO. Awards are issued as Prototype Other Transaction (OT) agreements and can scale into larger production contracts if prototypes meet performance milestones.

What could I use the funding for?

This funding is intended to support:

• Development of scalable deorbit systems (hardware + software).

• Rapid prototyping and integrated testing within 18–24 months.

• Safety & CONOPS development for rendezvous, proximity ops, and deorbit.

• Risk-mitigation engineering for non-cooperative satellite interaction.

• Commercial-ready production and launch planning.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Yes — strategic advantages include:

• Fast DIU prototype contracting using Other Transaction Authority.

• Potential for follow-on production contracts without a new competitive process upon successful prototype completion.

• Direct DoD engagement and visibility.

• Entry into the defense space ecosystem with future technology transition opportunities.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

• Application Deadline: February 13, 2026 at 23:59:59 US/Eastern — no extensions guaranteed.

• Phase 1 Evaluation: Review of Solution Briefs.

• Phase 2 (if selected): Pitch & potential invitation to full proposal.

• Prototype Award: Typically within weeks/months after Phase 2 selection.

• Prototype Delivery: 18–24 months expected.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) under the DoD’s Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) process, using Other Transaction Authority (OTA) that enables rapid non-FAR contracting to prototype commercial solutions relevant to national security.

Who is eligible to apply?

U.S. and international companies can submit.

1. Must satisfy 10 USC §4022(d) conditions for OT eligibility: significant nontraditional contribution or required small business participation, or non-government cost share.

2. Companies without a CAGE code must register in SAM.gov early.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Solutions that demonstrate:

• System-level capability for autonomous deorbit operations.

• Proven hardware + software maturity suitable for prototyping/launch.

• Clear safety and fault-management plans.

• Commercial scalability and cost-efficient operations.

• Collaborative readiness with government and commercial partners.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Your Solution Brief must be PDF, ≤10MB with recommended ~5 pages or ~15 slides.

1. Data must not exceed Controlled Unclassified Information unless certified.

2. Must comply with Section 889 of the FY2019 NDAA (restricting certain telecom equipment).

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Preparation time varies by team readiness:

• Fast track: 1–2 weeks with existing conceptual materials.

• Full brief + detailed CONOPS: 3–6+ weeks if ramping from scratch.

Given the February 13 deadline, start now — opportunities like this are rare and high impact.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can:

• Convert your technology narrative into a winning Solution Brief tailored for DIU evaluation criteria.

• Advise on risk mitigation, CONOPS articulation, and transition planning to increase award likelihood.

• Support teaming strategies with complementary partners to bolster competitiveness.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

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

Review the solicitation here.