# SAM #SSCPA2097

Award for Critical Factors Analysis and Satellite Communication Services Using Iridium PLEO Constellation

**Buyer:** SSC Commercial Services Office (SSC CMK)
**Posted:** September 18, 2026
**Identifier:** SSCPA2097
**NAICS:** 927110, 517410

This award notice covers a sole-source task order to Iridium Satellite LLC for specialized analysis and satellite communication services:
- Space Systems Command (SSC) awarded a Firm-Fixed-Price task order to Iridium Satellite LLC.
- The scope includes Critical Factors Analysis (CFA) studies of the Iridium PLEO (Proliferated Low Earth Orbit) Constellation and its services.
  - Studies also address generalized PLEO constellations and services.
- Iridium's NEXT constellation is uniquely capable, with 66 satellites and inter-satellite links (ISL) for uninterrupted global coverage.
  - ISL capability is essential for vulnerability and security analysis of multi-mission PLEO systems.
- Market research confirmed Iridium as the only provider with mature ISL-enabled global coverage; other constellations lack ISL or full deployment.
- No specific product part numbers or purchase quantities are listed; the award is for analysis and communication services.
- The award followed the transition of the Commercial Space Office to SSC and was subject to new public affairs and OPSEC review requirements.

**Key Details:**
- OEM: Iridium Satellite LLC
- Service: Satellite communication services with ISL, CFA studies
- Sole-source justification based on unique technical capabilities
- No competing products or vendors identified
- No specific period of performance or contract value disclosed

### Description

<p>The procurement instrument was a commercial Task order - Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) - award to Iridium Satellite LLC for a series of Critical Factors Analysis (CFA) studies&nbsp;addressing the Iridium PLEO Constellation and its Services, and generalized PLEO Constellations and Services.</p>

<p>The Commercial Space Office (CSO) officially transitioned to SSC from the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) in FY26; vetting through the new SSC Public Affairs and OPSEC review processes delayed publication within the mandated 14-day post-award window.</p>

[View original listing](https://sam.gov/opp/c90fa9e76f4b46df868d7bf131d3fe2b/view)