The Defense Innovation Unit is seeking commercial proposals to demonstrate power-beaming technology between spacecraft and from orbit to ground receivers within two years, with the goal of fielding an operational capability by fiscal 2030. The Pentagon has not yet decided whether to own and operate the system or purchase power as a service from a commercial provider. Companies have until July 22 to submit proposals, with selected firms expected to complete a lab demonstration within 12 months followed by an on-orbit prototype test within 24 months.
DIU is prioritizing space-to-space and space-to-ground transmission systems that can be fielded quickly and integrated into orbital demonstrations already underway. The solicitation covers four technical areas: spacecraft-to-spacecraft power transmission, orbit-to-ground beaming, receiver systems, and components to reduce the size and weight of future hardware. The effort uses DIU's Commercial Solutions Opening process with Other Transaction authority to accelerate contracting beyond standard federal procurement timelines, and is open to both U.S. and international companies including nontraditional defense contractors.