
Rocket Lab and Stoke Space Join U.S. Space Force’s $5.6B National Security Launch Program
Rocket Lab and Stoke Space Technologies have been selected to participate in the U.S. Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, which has a ceiling value of $5.6 billion. This significant contract, awarded by the Department of the Air Force, underscores the growing importance of private companies in national security missions.
The NSSL program aims to secure reliable and cost-effective space launches for critical government payloads. Rocket Lab's Neutron rocket, designed for larger satellite deployments, is set to be a key player in this initiative. Meanwhile, Stoke Space, a newer entrant in the space industry, brings innovative approaches to rocket technology, adding diversity to the program's roster.
This development marks a strategic move by the U.S. government to leverage commercial capabilities to enhance its space operations, reflecting a broader trend of integrating private sector innovation into national defense strategies. The inclusion of these companies in the NSSL program not only boosts their profiles but also signifies the evolving landscape of space technology and its critical role in national security.