Low Earth Orbit

This RFI is for research purposes only. The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) currently deploys several communications capabilities in response to declared emergencies. Many of FEMA’s currently utilized communication solutions are centered around traditional methods. Geostationary satellite systems have been deployed, but introduce correspondingly long latencies.

Additionally, provisioning of a router and circuit to disaster sites can take days to weeks.?For the last few years FEMA has deployed a FIPS compliant cellular solution which utilizes an array of high-gain antennae, however, these devices are reliant on terrestrial communication with cell towers, which can be compromised or unavailable in disaster areas due to the nature of the disaster.?

LEO satellite communications will fill in the gap by providing consistent high-speed internet connectivity that is less likely to be impacted by weather, terrain, and disasters. One of our programs currently utilizes Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Starlink terminals. This is a market research tool being used to determine the availability of Low Earth Orbit technologies that can provide these capabilities and services. FEMA is seeking contracting / acquisitions sources to meet this requirement. The government will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by respondents in the preparation and submision of responses to this Request for Infrmation (RFI).