The US Space Force is significantly increasing its National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 contract ceiling to $17 billion, with total potential procurement reaching up to $30 billion, to meet rising demand for military satellite deployments. This expansion allows for more frequent launches across both risk-tolerant 'Lane 1' missions using various commercial providers and high-security 'Lane 2' missions restricted to certified rockets like SpaceX's Falcon and ULA's Vulcan.
Background
The National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program is the US Department of Defense's primary mechanism for procuring launch services for national security satellites, ensuring reliable access to space for critical defense infrastructure.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- Jul 21, 2026 at 04:30 AM
- Score
- 8.0 / 10