Washington, DC – The U.S. Space Force has made significant advancements in its National Security Space Launch Phase 3 launch services program by selecting three major aerospace companies for lucrative contracts totaling $5.6 billion over a span of five years. This decision, announced by the Pentagon on June 13, marks a major milestone in the space industry.
Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance have emerged as the top contenders in this competitive landscape, vying for orders that will be issued between fiscal year 2025 and 2029. These missions, part of the NSSL program, involve the delivery of individual payloads into space up to two years in advance. The expectation is that at least 30 missions will be completed within the five-year period.
Of particular note is the inclusion of Blue Origin in this phase, as it marks the first time the company, led by Jeff Bezos, has been chosen to helm such critical national security launches. In contrast, SpaceX and ULA have dominated the national security launch domain under the previous Phase 2 program initiated in 2020.
The significance of this contract extends beyond financial implications, especially for Blue Origin, which previously contested the Phase 2 decision without success. However, with the Phase 3 designation, the company’s New Glenn heavy lift reusable rocket is now undergoing rigorous testing and is poised for its inaugural orbital flight later this year.
The NSSL Phase 3 program is divided into two distinct lanes – Lane 1 for less demanding launches to low Earth orbit and Lane 2 for heavier payloads to reach nine specified orbits, including critical national security missions. The selection of Blue Origin, SpaceX, and ULA for Lane 1 underscores the exceptional capabilities of these companies, leaving no room for additional competitors to qualify.
Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, the program executive officer for Assured Access to Space, highlighted the strategic foresight behind the current pool of awardees. The Space Force remains committed to fostering competition and diversity within the industry, with plans for new providers to join the roster in the coming years.
Looking ahead, the Space Force anticipates selecting Lane 2 providers in the near future to bolster its capabilities in handling more demanding missions. By emphasizing innovation and efficiency in the launch procurement process, the Space Force aims to drive down costs while maintaining reliable access to space through multiple established channels.