Space-Based Time Transfer Service (Space BaTTS) Research & Development

planned

Prospective

The UK Space Agency (UKSA) intends to commence a competitive procurement for the delivery of concept studies to explore potential technical and commercial approaches for the provision of a space-based time transfer capability that is independent of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). The requirement is part of the Space-Based Time Transfer Service (Space BaTTS) Research & Development Programme to develop, validate, and assess technology concepts that could fulfil an unmet government requirement for GNSS-independent global timing, provide UK overseas territories with backup timing solutions, and provide the UK mainland with an additional layer of timing resilience. The procurement will seek to appoint multiple suppliers to undertake time-limited proof-of-concept studies, to examine the viability of different space-enabled architectures and services to meet the aims of the Space BaTTS R&D Programme. Each study will assess technical performance, operational suitability, delivery risk and indicative costs, and will provide evidence to inform future investment decisions. The outputs will be used to develop a clearer understanding of the solution space and reduce uncertainty, informing any subsequent phases of work which could be undertaken. The requirements are deliberately outcome‑focused and pre‑commercial in nature. Suppliers will be invited to propose innovative approaches and solutions which may differ in technical design, maturity and scope. Individual contract values will therefore vary depending on the proposal submitted, subject to any stated maximum contract value. The competition is intended to support early‑stage research and development activity only. Appointment under this competition does not commit UKSA to any subsequent procurement for further development or operational delivery. Any future phases or follow‑on activity would be subject to separate consideration, funding approval and, where appropriate, further competition. UKSA encourages engagement from organisations with relevant expertise in space systems, timing and synchronisation, satellite technologies, and associated research and development disciplines. This planned procurement notice is intended to provide early visibility of the opportunity and does not constitute a commitment by UKSA to proceed with the procurement on the terms described. Planned Procurement Timelines: It is the UK Space Agency's intention to issue an Invitation to Tender (ITT) on 26th May 2026, with a long tender period and expected contract award by early 2027. Estimated Contract Value and Funding Position: The estimated total budget available for the feasibility studies is £1.68m excluding VAT. Multiple studies are expected to be commissioned, with individual contract values determined through competition and capped at £400,000 excluding VAT. The number of studies awarded, and individual contract values will be managed to remain within the overall budget. These figures are indicative only at this stage and remain subject to: • Internal due diligence; • Confirmation of final scope; • Availability of programme funding; • Required UK Government approvals. Further competitions may be opened subsequently to those who are successful within this competition for further development work on identified solutions. This funding is from the UK Space Agency only and applicants should note this competition is wholly run and administered by the UK Space Agency. This notice relates to the intended procurement for a contract which is an exempted contract under s 3(6) and Schedule 2, Part 2 (Subject-matter exempted contracts), paragraph 22 (Research and Development Services) of the Procurement Act 2023 (the 'Act'). Exempted contracts are not a public contract as defined in s3 of the Act and therefore are not required to be procured in accordance with the provisions of the Act that relate to a covered procurement.

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