
U.S. Military Awards $13.5 Billion in Launch Contracts to SpaceX, ULA, and Blue Origin Through 2029
The U.S. Department of Defense has announced the allocation of $13.5 billion in launch contracts to SpaceX, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Blue Origin, extending through 2029. This significant investment underscores the military's commitment to bolstering its space capabilities and ensuring national security in the increasingly contested domain of space.
SpaceX, known for its innovative approach to reusable rockets, secured a substantial portion of the contracts. ULA, a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin, and Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, also received significant funding. These contracts are part of the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 program, which aims to provide reliable and cost-effective access to space for critical military and intelligence missions.
In addition to these major players, the U.S. Space Force has also included Rocket Lab and Stoke Space in its launch vendor pool, expanding the competition and fostering innovation in the sector. This move is expected to enhance the resilience and flexibility of the U.S. military's space operations.