NRO Applies Non-Traditional Sourcing Method for Commercial Imagery, Data Collection Platforms

The National Reconnaissance Office has adopted a non-traditional contracting framework to identify potential sources of commercial satellite technologies designed to collect imagery and data that can support the agency’s mission.

Commercial radar platforms will be the initial focus area of its Broad Agency Announcement Framework for Strategic Commercial Enhancements, which is open to both domestic and foreign-owned U.S. businesses, NRO said Thursday.

The agency embarked on this new acquisition effort following research work by its Commercial Systems Program Office in a push to expand its access to new and emerging systems from the private sector.

“This BAA Framework will allow the NRO to rapidly explore, assess, and leverage innovative industry capabilities to meet new intelligence challenges and inform operational requirements,” said Chris Scolese, director of NRO and a 2021 Wash100 Award recipient.

The office plans to introduce additional focus areas multiple times annually.

Other technology areas of interest include hyperspectral imagery, radio frequency remote sensing and electro-optical platforms.

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