Concerns Over Impact on Space Rapid Capabilities Office Plans Amid Congressional Debate

Senior Space Force acquisition officials are worried about the impact of losing SBIR grants on their programs. Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy expressed concern over the potential loss of these grants, which provide seed funds to commercial firms and startups. Kelly Hammett, director of the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (RCO), noted that the program is crucial for seeding money into non-traditional companies. The RCO has been trying to raise funding caps and focus on products close to being ready for prime time. However, the congressional impasse over SBIR reauthorization may put these efforts in a holding pattern.