NRO Preparing First RFP For Small Launch Vehicles Written 19 August 2018

Aerospace America reports that the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), known for purchasing large observation satellites, “is learning to think small for some of its needs.” At a talk at the Space Symposium, NRO Director Betty Sapp told an audience that the agency wants to “explore what the tiny rocket marketplace can provide for us.” On April 23, the NRO will issue a final request for proposals to industry for the acquisition of small launch vehicles, the first time the agency’s Office of Space Launch has sought to “procure a rocket exclusively to launch small satellites.” The NRO is seeking rockets smaller than Orbital ATK’s Minotaur 4 that “have achieved a successful test flight.” The agency intends to award contracts in June “for the winning companies to complete the project in time for a June 2019 launch.” 
Full Story (Aerospace America)