WASHINGTON / LONDON (IT BOLTWISE) – The Space Force plans to issue a request for proposals on December 7 for prototype kinetic energy space-based interceptors for mid-flight missile defense. This initiative could provide an additional layer of defense against intercontinental ballistic missiles missed by launch phase interceptors.
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The Space Force has announced that it will issue a request for proposals on December 7 for prototype space-based kinetic energy interceptors (SBIs) for mid-flight missile defense. This announcement follows the price-based model introduced for entry-stage interceptors back in September. The Space Systems Command (SSC) plans to award multiple fixed-price agreements and possibly incorporate prize competitions.
Although the announcement does not contain technical details, it is made clear that these are systems based on kinetic impact, rather than directed energy, to shoot down enemy missiles during their orbital trajectory. Companies that would like to take part in the tender must apply for the tender documents by December 4th. The contracts are expected to be awarded in February 2026.
A network of mid-flight interceptors could provide the Space Force with an additional layer of defense capable of intercepting enemy intercontinental ballistic missiles missed by launch-stage interceptors. This space-based defense has physical advantages in that it offers a shorter strike distance and lacks atmospheric effects that could complicate target acquisition.
However, there are also challenges in defending in the middle phase of flight. Adversaries could use decoys that are released after reaching orbit, making it difficult to distinguish between the actual target and the decoys. This complexity poses a significant challenge to the effectiveness of interception systems.
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