Orbit Fab recently announced the appointment of Jeff Lints as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). In this pivotal leadership role, Lints will spearhead the global commercial strategy and drive the market adoption of the RAFTI refueling port. His appointment comes at a critical juncture as the company transitions from its development phase into scaled production and service delivery. By focusing on the integration of the Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface, or RAFTI, Lints will help organizations across the commercial, civil, and national security sectors extend the mission life of their orbital assets.
Driving Innovation in Government Contracting
As the demand for sustainable space infrastructure grows, Jeff Lints will oversee customer engagement and partner integration to solidify the company’s position in the Government Contracting arena. His extensive background as an entrepreneur and executive—most recently as the founder and CEO of Fortius Metals—equips him with the expertise needed to commercialize advanced manufacturing technologies for space and defense. At GovCon News, we recognize that such leadership moves are essential for scaling the in-space propellant supply chain and meeting the rigorous requirements of federal agencies.
Scaling the RAFTI Refueling Standard
The RAFTI refueling port has quickly become an industry standard for in-orbit fueling. The interface allows spacecraft to be resupplied with chemical, electric, and green propellants, enabling them to “maneuver without regret.” Lints will focus on ensuring that this technology reaches a broad base of customers looking to reduce space debris and improve mission flexibility. With the first commercial in-orbit test of the RAFTI interface scheduled for early 2026, the company is preparing for a series of high-stakes demonstrations that will redefine satellite longevity.
Future Missions and Defense Partnerships
Orbit Fab is currently advancing several key projects, including the flight qualification of the GRIP active docking system. This system, designed specifically for RAFTI-enabled spacecraft, is set to launch in late 2026 as part of a mission supporting the U.S. Space Force. Additionally, a contract with Momentus will see the technology tested during an Air Force Research Laboratory funded mission. These milestones highlight the critical role of the private sector in supporting national security through innovative Government Contracting solutions.
A New Chapter for In-Orbit Logistics
With Jeff Lints at the helm of commercial operations, the company is poised to transform from a hardware developer into a premier service provider. His academic background, including an MBA from Cornell University and engineering degrees from the University of Colorado Boulder and Clarkson University, provides a robust foundation for navigating the complex technical and business landscapes of the space industry. Stay tuned to GovCon News for more updates on how these advancements will impact the future of space logistics and defense.
