SpaceX, ULA and Blue Origin Secure $13.5 Billion in U.S. Space Force Launch Contracts
The United States Space Force has awarded rocket launch contracts worth $13.5 billion to SpaceX, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Blue Origin. These contracts will cover approximately 54 missions through 2029 under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 program, which focuses on transporting highly sensitive and complex military satellites into space.
SpaceX Leads with 28 Missions in Initial Allocation
SpaceX secured the largest share with 28 missions, earning $5.9 billion. The company will use its workhorse Falcon 9 rocket and the more powerful Falcon Heavy for these missions. As the world’s most active launch provider, SpaceX is widely recognised for its rapid and cost-effective launch capabilities. The company’s reusable rockets have also made it a top choice for the Pentagon.
Reports suggest SpaceX will handle the majority of missions in the first year of the Phase 3 programme, reflecting its consistent launch rate and proven track record. CEO Elon Musk commented on social media, noting that while 60% of missions were awarded to SpaceX, rivals currently lack the capacity to fulfil the remaining 40%.
ULA and Blue Origin Also Win Key Roles
ULA, a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin, received 19 missions worth $5.3 billion. The company will utilise its Vulcan rocket, which was recently certified by the Pentagon for national security launches following its initial flights in the previous year. Despite earlier delays that led to mission transfers to SpaceX, ULA’s CEO Tory Bruno expressed confidence, stating Vulcan is built to meet all national security launch requirements.
Blue Origin, owned by Jeff Bezos, was awarded seven missions with a total value of $2.3 billion. These launches are expected later in the programme. The company’s New Glenn rocket made its first flight in January and remains in the early stages compared to its more established competitors.
National Security Missions Reserved for Top Launch Providers
The awarded contracts fall under the “Lane 2” segment of the Phase 3 programme, which handles the most demanding missions. These include launches to various complex orbits that require high reliability and advanced capability. This track is restricted to the most experienced US-based rocket providers.
In the earlier Phase 2 programme, ULA secured 60% of the contracts while SpaceX received the remaining 40%. However, delays with ULA’s Vulcan rocket led to some missions being reassigned to SpaceX, increasing its share and influence within the defence space sector.
The awards highlight the growing importance of space in military strategy and reaffirm SpaceX’s dominant position in the launch industry. At the same time, ULA and Blue Origin continue to develop their capabilities to meet evolving national security demands.
with inputs from Reuters
