Space Force launches initiative to expand industry access to classified space programs
Key Highlights
- ACES helps commercial companies navigate security-clearance requirements for classified space missions.
- The program builds on lessons from DARPA's BRIDGES pilot, connecting nontraditional companies with DoD research opportunities.
- Companies must establish relationships with government sponsors before accessing classified information through ACES.
- COMSO collaborates with organizations like SpaceWERX and DARPA to provide guidance and support.
- The initiative aims to expand commercial technology integration into national security space missions.
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - The U.S. Space Force's Commercial Space Office (COMSO) has launched an initiative to help commercial companies navigate security-clearance requirements for classified national security space missions.
U.S. Space Force Col. Tim Trimailo, COMSO director, announced the Access to the Classified Ecosystem for Space (ACES) initiative during the 2026 LA Space Week Space Industry Days event.
ACES aims to identify classified-access requirements early and help companies work with government sponsors to navigate the clearance process, Trimailo said.
"Without the appropriate security access, the government cannot fully engage industry partners on relevant threats, capability requirements, and mission needs," Trimailo said.
The initiative builds on lessons from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) BRIDGES program, a 30-month pilot that connected small and nontraditional companies with classified Department of Defense (DoD) research and development opportunities. DARPA concluded the pilot in 2025 after selecting 19 companies for government-sponsored facility clearances.
COMSO will work with defense innovation organizations, including SpaceWERX, the Defense Innovation Unit, and DARPA, to provide guidance and coordinate support for companies and their government sponsors. Potential contracting mechanisms include other transaction authority agreements, which were used in BRIDGES.
U.S. Space Force Col. Aaron Stevenson, COMSO deputy director, said the initiative brings together government resources and expertise to reduce barriers for companies with validated needs to support classified space missions.
ACES is not an open application pathway for companies seeking security clearances independently. Companies must first establish a relationship with a government sponsor that has an identified need for classified engagement. COMSO will then work with the sponsor to determine the appropriate contracting approach and access requirements.
The initiative aims to expand the pool of commercial technologies available for evaluation and potential integration into national security space missions.
Space Systems Command acquires, develops, and delivers capabilities for the U.S. Space Force. For more information, visit ssc.spaceforce.mil.
