Lee Steinke

Hot off the presses: "Building an Enduring Advantage in the Third Space Age." Some key findings: - The United States accounted for roughly half of global launches in 2023, and it made up 81% of effective launch capacity. - More satellites were launched in the past five years (2019–23) than in all previous years combined. - In 2023, 78% of satellites launched were from the United States and 84% were for commercial missions. - The US advantage in space rests largely on America’s lead in space technology. - To turn this temporary lead into an enduring advantage, the United States must build on sources of national power that run deeper than technology: the combination of free markets, an open society, and access to capital, which enable the engine of innovation behind this technology. Three Areas of Recommendations: 1. Reduce obstacles for new launch vehicles and companies. - Expand the Federal Aviation Administration’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation. - Increase Space Force funding for launch-range operations and infrastructure modernization. - Revise the Space Force’s launch acquisition strategy to create more opportunities for new entrants. 2. Press the advantage to accelerate US military and intelligence space missions. - Develop much larger intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) satellites for the National Reconnaissance Office. - Deploy a tactical ISR layer as part of the Space Force’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). - Accelerate the development and use of space logistics, in-space servicing, and spacelift. - Begin using commercial ISR capabilities for immediate combatant command support and to better inform PWSA tactical ISR layer requirements. 3. Enhance the lure of international partnerships with NASA to achieve broader space policy goals. - Expand opportunities in the Artemis program. - Develop novel deep-space missions that take advantage of new super-heavy launch vehicles. - Negotiate a new multilateral agreement that builds on the Artemis Accords and includes more specific and binding requirements. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gy7aiUT3

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ICYMI: Last week, I posted an article on my Forbes column to talk about the Modular Open Systems Approach (#MOSA), which is now required by law for very #DoD major defense acquisition program. So, if you expect to work on US #military #rotorcraft development efforts in the future, you should read this. In addition, the NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (#NGRC) program will require MOSA, and commercial aircraft efforts will likely all look at modular and open systems approaches. In other words, just about everyone should get familiar with MOSA, how to incorporate it into aircraft developments and why. https://lnkd.in/ek-tn2nf Bell Flight #V280 #Valor #FLRAA #FVL #AAM #eVTOL #Standards #OpenSystems #Modular

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Production for the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) constellation is in full swing, and Northrop Grumman is one of the primary contractors producing satellites for what will soon be a global constellation of missile defense and data transport satellites. SDA’s concept relies on mature technology available on the open market to field satellites two to three times faster than traditional military space programs. https://lnkd.in/eKemmsg5

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Day #7: Government Efficiency Initiatives - ELIMINATE GOVT LABS Government labs were once setup to pursue specific objectives on impossible timelines with the most skilled talent in the world. Government labs are now laden with career researchers and bureaucracy, evident in astronomical fringe, overhead and administrative fees. Want to be a Principal Investigator? A PhD is a must and typically means you specialize in something so specific it is basically irrelevant, are willing to tow the line of the majority thought stream, and are great at maximizing references in the many irrelevant papers you publish each year. But, worst of all, the return on investment of these labs has been negative almost since inception. Yes, there are some exceptions, but evaluating on a ROI VC (actual profit, not investment) basis, these labs are losers and always have been. Want more proof? After eliminating these labs, see how many of the paid operators want to purchase the labs and continue to fund them with private dollars... To be specific, I'm looking at you Lawrence Livermore, Lincoln Labs, Los Alamos, Oak Ridge, Sandia, Argonne, PNL, NREL, and many others! Turn research over to private industry and force alignment with industry objectives. Stage gate development and tie it to actual profit-based ROI for the United States of America. Running List of Government Efficiency Initiatives: #1: FFP Contracts Only #2: 1 Acquisition System #3: Pay for Performance (Government Employees) #4: Rapid Gated Contracts #5: Extend Federal Whistle Blower Rights to Contractors #6: Free Compliance Systems #7: Eliminate Government Labs Have other ideas? Please reach out or comment below.

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Boy, I really struck a nerve with this one! I think the amount of interaction is great for discussion of path forward. There's obviously something here. I've noticed two things that trouble me: 1. No one has responded that there is not an issue with inefficiency in Government Labs. Translation: everyone agrees Government Labs are inefficient. 2. Those that do not want to shut down Government Labs offer no solutions for reduction in costs and increased efficiency. Though, shoutout to Justin Scarborough who highlights a connected and more general issue of lack of scientific discovery. Surely, if the system is producing inverse results, simply throwing more money at the problem isn't going to help - it's more likely to hurt. Also, I never purported to get rid of low-TRL research. It belongs at Universities and industry collaboratives. More thoughts on how to fix the issues, especially for you knee-jerk "No"s?

David Koch, Martina Johnson, Senthil Arul, Barry Humphrey, Ph.D., Steve McKee P.E., John Shultz - thank you for your sponsorship of the RGBSI Aerospace & Defense Digital Sustainment Platform ... it has been an amazing 4-year 'DoD Innovation' journey from BAA White Paper to SBIR Phase I to SBIR Phase III to GSA Schedule and operational follow-on contracts supporting Defense Logistics Agency, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition & Sustainment, and MilSvs, including AI-enabled DMSMS and Materiel Obsolescence Solutions. NCMS – National Center for Manufacturing Sciences #DigitalEngineering, #Engineering, #Manufacturing, #ModelbasedManufacturing, #ProductQuality, #RequirementsTracability, #SmallBusiness, #SupplyChain, #Sustainment

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AFWERX AFVentures has issued a Notice of Opportunity (NOO) within the Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) program for both air and space projects. The window for government champion-led capability package submissions will open on July 25 and close September 18 at noon ET. "The STRATFI program underscores our commitment to transitioning dual-use commercial technologies into the hands of our Airmen and Guardians, ensuring that our military forces have access to the most advanced state-of-the-art capabilities that are emerging in our private sector,” said Col. Elliott Leigh, AFWERX director and chief commercialization officer for the United States Department of the Air Force. “This Strategic Funding Increase is not just an investment in hardware; it's an investment in our national security, safeguarding our values and interests for generations to come." STRATFI is open to small businesses with an awarded Phase II SBIR/STTR contract. The company must either have a current Phase II contract, with a minimum of 90 days of performance executed, or have completed a Phase II contract within two years of submitting a capability package. Read more here: https://ow.ly/ZGyz50SHFci . . . #AFWERX #AFVentures #STRATFI #noticeofopportunity #funding #opportunity #innovation

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I enjoyed my conversation with Katherine Jerald 🎙on her Mission Critical: Defense Recruiting podcast!

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🔍 Applied Optimization is on the rise with a $139,997 award from the United States Department of Defense, awarded by the UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY. This #STTR Phase I award is focused on the project 'STTR PHASE I UNDER TOPIC N24A-T003'. 🧪 This award is part of the Small Technology Transfer Research Program, emphasizing Basic Research. The project will span 5 months, starting on July 2, 2024, and concluding on December 30, 2024. Hats off to Applied Optimization for their innovative spirit! #Technology #Research

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Reflecting on the rapid changes and poor decisions seen this past year, it's clear that sustainability in leadership requires more than just a vision—it demands accountability, genuine experience, and a deep commitment to the long-term well-being of all stakeholders. Are we nurturing leaders who prioritize quick wins over lasting impact? The future of this industry hinges on this answer.

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The Pentagon’s Rapid Defense Experimentation Reserve (RDER) is driving forward crucial, low-profile tech vital to maintaining USMIL superiority. By accelerating projects like the Maritime Targeting Cell & Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC), RDER is addressing gaps that traditional service budgets have overlooked, ensuring USMIL's readiness in multi-domain operations. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Integrated Multi-Domain Capabilities: The evolving nature of modern warfare demands seamless integration of sensors, comms systems & targeting nodes across multiple domains. Programs like the Maritime Targeting Cell & MQ-9 enhancements highlight the need for robust, adaptable systems that can operate effectively in contested environments. - Advice: Focus on developing modular, scalable systems that easily integrate with existing platforms across different domains. Prioritize solutions that enhance real-time data fusion & resilient comms to ensure operational effectiveness in complex environments. - Differentiator: The development of modular & scalable systems allows for easy adaptation/upgrades, ensuring they remain relevant & effective as threats evolve. This adaptability is critical in maintaining the tech edge in multi-domain operations. Opp - Accelerated Development & Fielding: The Pentagon’s emphasis on rapid prototyping & fielding through initiatives like RDER highlights the need for speed in developing & deploying new tech. - Advice: Firms should adopt agile development methodologies & leverage advanced AI-driven testing environments to accelerate the transition from prototype to operational deployment. Focus on building systems that can be quickly adapted to meet evolving operational requirements. - Differentiator: Agile development processes combined with AI-driven testing allow for faster iteration & refinement, reducing the time from development to deployment. This speed is essential in staying ahead of emerging threats. Opp - Resilient Comms in Contested Environments: Ensuring secure & resilient comms is paramount in environments where electronic warfare is a constant threat. - Advice: Invest in AI-powered comms systems that can dynamically adapt to interference & jamming, ensuring continuous operational capability. These systems should be designed with redundancy & self-healing capabilities to maintain functionality in highly contested environments. - Differentiator: AI-powered, adaptive communication systems enhance resilience against electronic warfare tactics, providing a critical edge in maintaining operational continuity during high-intensity conflicts. CRG offers the strategic insights & technical expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of defense acquisitions & ensure your innovations reach the battlefield. Visit crgroupinc.com or contact us at [email protected]. #Innovation #MultiDomain #RapidPrototyping #AI #C4ISR #DoD #MilitaryTech #USMilitary #RDER #ModularSystems

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In this article by Dann Hayes, Director of Operations & Testing, we highlight Direct Field Acoustic Testing technology in human spaceflight applications. Find out how ARS is pushing the boundaries with scalable and efficient acoustic testing systems that are now being embraced by the human spaceflight sector. From rigorous system checks to meticulous planning, learn why Direct Field Acoustic Testing is becoming the preferred method for ensuring the safety and reliability of space missions. Learn more how ARS is setting new standards in human spaceflight safety with DFAN technology: https://lnkd.in/egkmCUmF #directfieldacoustictesting #aerospace #spacetech #directfieldacousticnoise #dfan #environmentaltesting

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Tune in to watch the launch of the Sentinel-1C satellite, Europe’s most advanced weather satellite is now fully operational, Umbra Selected for NRO Strategic Commercial Enhancements Stage III, SatVu Secures £10M in Funding for its Thermal Imaging Service, GHGSat to Launch 9 More Satellites Before 2027, Neo Space Group to acquire UP42 Earth Observation Digital Platform from Airbus, Princeton Infrared Technologies Awarded NASA SBIR Contract to Develop Next-Generation 24-bit SWIR Imager, Earth Engine Task Manager - Running a GEE script directly in VS Code by Oliver Lopez, Smaller Satellite Images by Mark Litwintschik, GeoParquet Downloader - QGIS plugin by Chris Holmes, Flexth: the open source tool to estimate the depth and extent of floods, Using NASA EarthData Cloud & Python to Model Climate Risks | PyData NYC 2024, Announcement of Opportunity for HotSat-1, EUMETSAT Data Access Client 3.0 is now available, Satellites Reveal a Greener Antarctic Peninsula, Space for Shore: Sentinel-1 reveals Arctic glacier retreat, The State of AI in EO by Bruno Sanchez-Andrade Nuño, Taking to the skies for EarthCARE, A pan-European analysis of coastal subsidence with EGMS, Expanded AI Model with Global Data Enhances Earth Science Applications, Spatial Data Management Course material available https://lnkd.in/deJrevCV #earthobservation #remotesensing #machinelearning #deeplearning #python

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Are you at the 2024 Air, Space & Cyber Conference by Air & Space Forces Association? Founding Partner Maj Gen (Ret) Kim Crider moderated Monday's "The Digital Enterprise" panel, and will moderate the "Cyber and Communications: Gaining the Edge in Great Power Competition" this Wednesday. Learn more and explore the agenda of this year's #AFANational at the link below!

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NASA is soliciting industry proposals to carry out rapid studies of mission designs and mission elements capable of delivering samples collected by the Mars Perseverance rover from the surface of Mars to Earth. NASA recognizes that U.S. industry has innovative ideas and substantial capabilities that may be relevant to a Mars Sample Return campaign. This Rapid Mission Design Studies for Mars Sample Return program element (henceforth “program element”) seeks to establish whether there are viable mission designs or mission element options, such as a smaller Mars Ascent Vehicle, to return samples from Mars that offer benefits (e.g., less complexity, lower overall cost, lower annual cost, earlier sample return, and/or lower risk; see Section 3.4) compared to NASA’s reference mission design. Studies may be for complete mission designs, for mission designs that include elements of NASA’s Mars Sample Return Program or NASA’s Artemis Program as Government Furnished Equipment (GFE), or for individual mission elements; see Section 3.2. The results of these studies may inform revisions to NASA’s Mars Sample Return Program and may result in future procurements. go.nasa.gov/rasmsr24

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This podcast offers a compelling discussion on nuclear energy and its potential to shape a sustainable and responsible future. Keep an open mind as you listen, taking the time to absorb the insights before sharing your own perspective. Access to affordable energy policy influences societal social structure, wealth distribution, and environmental sustainability, all of which are interconnected with national security. This is how we responsibly shape the trajectory of economic development and the well-being of communities around the world. To navigate these complex dynamics effectively, we must pursue comprehensive solutions that resist ideological influences and prioritize rational decision-making. #NuclearEnergy #Sustainability #FutureTech #RenewableEnergy #Environment #PodcastDiscussion #OpenMindedness #ThoughtfulConversation #nationalsecurity https://lnkd.in/e7t2sFuv

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🚀 Exciting Concept Alert! Gibbs & Cox, a Leidos company, is revolutionizing naval defense with its Mobile Defense/Depot Platform (MODEP) Concept, unveiled at Sea Air Space 2024. Addressing the U.S. Navy’s capacity challenges in the Western Pacific, MODEP transforms surplus oil rigs into heavily armed mobile missile defense and resupply bases. Dave Zook, Solutions Architect & Combat Systems Department Manager at Gibbs & Cox, emphasized the urgency of solving capacity issues and keeping ships in forward stations. MODEP, a large floating island base, boasts a 12-month independent operation capability and offers stability even in waves up to 60 feet tall. It features 6-20 MW of extra mission power, a maintenance and repair shop, a 2.3 million gallon fuel capacity, and an initial payload capacity of 8000 metric tons. The concept supports air defense or strike missions at a capacity five times that of an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, with up to 512 vertical launch system cells or 100 large missile launchers. This includes support for larger missiles like hypersonics, meeting the Navy’s DDG(X) program requirements. Moreover, MODEP facilitates the sustainment of surface combatants and nuclear submarines through Afloat Forward Staging Base configuration, offering stable options for VLS reloading at sea, depot repair capability, and expanded mission potential. What's more, Gibbs & Cox estimates that conversion from civilian to military use could be achieved within approximately 24 months, utilizing existing offshore oil and gas technology. With 4-6 commercial platforms in the United States ripe for conversion, this concept promises a cost-effective and timely solution to critical naval defense challenges. Are you intrigued by this innovative approach to naval defense? Let's discuss how MODEP could shape the future of maritime security! #NavalDefense #Innovation #MODEP #SeaAirSpace2024

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