# Space Force Seeks Cislunar and AI Capabilities

The U.S. Space Force plans to issue two unclassified requests for information: one seeking commercially available cislunar capabilities, including space domain awareness and positioning, navigation and timing, and another seeking AI software for autonomous spacecraft operations. The service is looking for existing or near-commercial solutions rather than substantial new research and development, with capabilities targeted for fielding by Q4 FY2029. The RFIs are expected soon; no contract values, solicitation numbers, or procurement contacts are provided.

- Contractors with mature space hardware, AI software, or integrated ground-system offerings should prepare concise capability information and evidence of operational readiness for the upcoming RFIs.
- The cislunar RFI covers mission-enabling capabilities such as space domain awareness and PNT; the autonomy RFI includes functions such as spacecraft fault management, sensor-data processing, and mission adjustment.
- The emphasis on fieldable solutions indicates that companies proposing substantial new R&D may be less aligned with the stated acquisition need.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** October 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Space Force (USSF)

### Key Quotes
> I’m not going to pay you R&D funds for this stuff.
> — Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, Space Force portfolio acquisition executive for advanced programs

### Sources
- [Space Force Prepping RFIs For Cislunar, Autonomous Operations | Aviation Week](https://aviationweek.com/space/space-exploration/space-force-prepping-rfis-cislunar-autonomous-operations) - Aviation Week
- [Space Force shifts into high gear on cislunar warfare, with RFIs coming soon - Breaking Defense](https://breakingdefense.com/2026/10/space-force-shifts-into-high-gear-on-cislunar-warfare-with-rfis-coming-soon) - Breaking Defense