Rockin' and Rollin': The Space Force's NSSL Phase 3 Contract Update
Space Force Nears New Launch Contract Agreements, Pending Congressional Approval of Budget
The Space Force is all set to award big bucks in launch contracts by year's end, provided Congress doesn't pull a Cinderella and turn the pumpkin into a carriage with a midnight budget freeze! By 2024, the Space Systems Command (SSC) aims to dish out a contract for the next phase of its National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, if Congress plays its cards right.
SSC's ultimate goal? Launching the military's fancy new satellite systems into orbit from 2025 to 2029. This phase, divided into Lanes 1 and 2, is all about balancing risk and reliability. Lane 1 is for missions where a bit of risk-taking is allowed, while Lane 2 is for mammoth-scale launches that require absolute mission assurance.
In June, SpaceX, ULA, and Blue Origin bagged contracts for Lane 1. SSC's selection process for Lane 2 is still ongoing, with awards expected by the end of the year. "It's a big deal, so we're taking our time," said Brig. Gen. Kristin L. Panzenhagen, the SSC's program executive officer for Assured Access to Space.
Intriguing twist: If Congress can't agree on a budget by October 1 and passes a continuing resolution instead, the schedule could slip. The SSC, however, has the chops to prioritize where its CR funds go, with space lift and NSSL missions high on the list.
Set to make a grand entrance in October, United Launch Alliance's Vulcan Centaur rocket and Blue Origin's New Glenn vehicle are key toPhase 3. These rockets are scheduled for certification flights, which are crucial for both Phase 2 (where ULA and SpaceX are the only contractors) and for competing for specific missions within Phase 3.
The stakes are particularly high for Lane 2, consisting of nearly 50 missions and limited to just three providers. SpaceX, with its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, is currently the dominatrix of the launch market, leaving ULA and Blue Origin to compete for Lane 2 contracts. ULA's Vulcan and Blue Origin's New Glenn might still have some catching up to do, but here's hoping they rock it!
As for smaller launch providers, they're chomping at the bit for a chance to join the Lane 1 party. The SSC recently held an industry day for the next on-ramp and plans to release a solicitation next month, making it just peachy for these upstarts to stake their claim in the launch services sector.
Now, let's talk numbers: SpaceX is expected to take on 28 missions (around 60% of the launches contracted from FY25-FY29), while ULA has been awarded 19 missions. Blue Origin, on the other hand, is looking at seven Phase 3 Lane 2 missions starting in FY26.
So buckle up, folks, it's going to be an exciting ride for the Space Force's NSSL program! We'll keep our eyes peeled for updates and, of course, the Fireworks display of the Vulcan and New Glenn's certification flights!
Enrichment Data:
Overall:
The Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 contracts are currently distributed as follows:
- SpaceX: Anticipated to undertake 28 missions (around 60% of the launches contracted from FY25-FY29), for a sum of around $5.9 billion out of a total of $13.7 billion allocated for Phase 3.
- United Launch Alliance (ULA): Awarded 19 missions (around 40% of the contracted launches).
- Blue Origin: Projected to receive seven Phase 3 Lane 2 missions starting in FY26.
This phase emphasizes the role of SpaceX as the dominant provider, with ULA facing challenges, particularly with the transition to its Vulcan rocket.
If Congress passes a continuing resolution instead of a full budget, it could have several implications for the NSSL program, including funding uncertainty, limited opportunities for smaller launch providers, and potential delays.
- The Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 contracts involve a significant financial commitment, with a total of $13.7 billion allocated.
- SpaceX is anticipated to handle 28 missions, approximately 60% of the launches contracted from FY25-FY29, potentially securing around $5.9 billion in contracts.
- United Launch Alliance (ULA) has been awarded 19 missions, which account for approximately 40% of the contracted launches.
- Blue Origin is projected to receive seven Phrase 3 Lane 2 missions starting in FY26, highlighting the role of various space businesses in the NSSL program.
