The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded $13.7 billion in military space launch contracts to SpaceX, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Blue Origin. This landmark agreement under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 2 initiative ensures reliable access to space for critical military and intelligence missions from 2025 to 2029.
Announced by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command on April 4, the deal marks the first time three providers will jointly handle high-priority national security payloads.
Contract Breakdown:
- SpaceX: $5.9 billion | 28 missions (~60%)
- ULA: $5.4 billion | 19 missions (~35%)
- Blue Origin: $2.4 billion | 7 missions (~13%), starting in Year 2 (pending certification)
A Strategic Move for National Security
General Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, emphasized the strategic importance of building a resilient launch architecture to safeguard both economic interests and national defense.
Missions under Lane 2 focus on high-energy orbits and complex security requirements, such as missile warning systems and secure communication networks. The launches are scheduled from fiscal year 2027 through 2032.
Blue Origin’s Competitive Entry
For the first time, Blue Origin joins the ranks of national security launch providers, despite its New Glenn rocket not yet being certified. The company is expected to earn certification before its first mission and was designated the “third best value provider.”
ULA’s New Vulcan Rocket Certified
ULA recently achieved a critical milestone by certifying its Vulcan rocket on March 26, paving the way to begin launching Phase 2 missions and take on its new Phase 3 responsibilities.
Dual-Lane Acquisition Strategy Explained
- Lane 1: 30 missions, lower-risk, commercial-style payloads.
- Lane 2: High-stakes national security missions requiring top-tier performance and reliability.
These contracts are part of the Pentagon’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on Russian-made RD-180 engines and strengthen the U.S. launch industry.
Annual mission assignments begin in late 2025 and will continue through 2029, ensuring consistent access to space for vital defense operations.
