Space Force uses SpaceX for additional NSSL launches

SpaceX became the first to secure more Phase 3 launch contracts under the National Security Space Launch program as the Space Force continues to expand its launch options.

Space Systems Command awarded SpaceX two task orders on Oct. 18, covering seven launches for the Space Development Agency's data transport satellites and an unknown number of launches for the secretive National Reconnaissance Office.

SpaceX is one of three companies selected for “Track 1” of NSSL’s third phase, designed as commercial missions with higher risk tolerance. But the other two – United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin – are still certifying their new rockets for NSSL requirements. That leaves SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets as the only proven workhorses, which is why SpaceX accounted for 90 percent of US launches in 2023.

“We are pleased to launch our innovative NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 effort with two task orders supporting critical NRO and SDA missions,” said Lt. Col. Douglas Downs, SSC materials lead for space launch acquisition. “The industry has risen to the challenges and overcome this competition.”

ULA and Blue Origin have been competing for the contract orders, SSC officials said, even though their rockets have not yet been certified. The order covers missions that are still months away – the NRO launch window runs from summer 2025 to summer 2026 and the SDA launches, scheduled for 2026, are intended to send Tranche 2 of its highly distributed low-Earth orbit constellation into orbit .

“In this era of great power competition, it is imperative not to leave capabilities on the ground,” Brigadier General said. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, program manager for Assured Access to Space, said in a statement. “The Phase 3 Lane 1 construct allows us to more quickly execute launch services for the more risk-tolerant payloads, thereby delivering more capabilities to orbit more quickly in support of national security.”

In its press release, SSC continued to emphasize the importance of competition to the launch, noting that more providers will be able to compete for Lane 1 as a “on-ramp” opens later this year. Further task orders are expected in spring 2025. In total, Lane 1 is expected to include at least 30 missions.

Nine other potential launch providers are part of the Space Force's Orbital Services Program-4, intended for fast launches and small payloads. Firefly Aerospace, Astra Space and Rocket Lab have all launched military satellites.

SSC also plans to award contracts for Lane 2 launches, which include critical missions with low risk tolerance. Panzenhagen told reporters last month that the command expects to award three contracts before the end of the year, but without a new budget from Congress, those awards are likely to be delayed.