Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
Space Force Expands National Security Space Launch Program with Rocket Lab and Stoke Space
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a move to enhance assured access to space, the U.S. Space Force has selected Rocket Lab and Stoke Space to compete for lucrative national security launch agreements. This decision broadens the pool of private space companies vying for a share of the multibillion-dollar National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, aimed at strengthening military space capabilities.
New Entrants Join NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1
Space Systems Command, the Space Force’s procurement division, announced on March 27 the inclusion of Rocket Lab and Stoke Space in the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 initiative. These companies will join existing contractors Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) in this indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract. The agreement allows these firms to bid on launch service orders through 2029, with at least 30 missions anticipated, representing an estimated $5.6 billion in potential task orders.
Boosting Launch Capacity and Competition
This expansion of participants underscores the Space Force’s commitment to increasing launch capacity within the national security space sector. “With this award, the Space Force is growing our array of launch systems capable of delivering vital space assets. These new partners introduce innovative approaches and greater competition,” stated Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, the Space Force’s program executive officer for Assured Access to Space.
Initial Funding and Capabilities Assessment
Rocket Lab and Stoke Space represent a fresh wave of launch providers developing medium-lift rockets to challenge established players. Rocket Lab, widely recognized for its Electron small satellite launcher, is currently developing Neutron. Neutron is a reusable carbon-composite rocket designed to transport up to 13 metric tons to orbit, with its inaugural launch from Wallops Island, Virginia, projected for late 2025.
Stoke Space, a newer company in the launch sector, is engineering Nova, a fully reusable medium-lift launch vehicle. The company recently achieved a significant milestone by completing initial test firings of Zenith, the engine that will propel Nova’s first stage.
Both Rocket Lab and Stoke Space will each receive an initial $5 million task order to undertake a capabilities assessment. This also includes establishing their tailored mission assurance process — a government evaluation method used to analyze launch vehicle risks.
NSSL Phase 3 Dual-Lane Structure
The NSSL Phase 3 framework introduces a two-tiered structure, diverging from prior procurement strategies, to accommodate a wider spectrum of launch service providers. Lane 1, the entry-level tier, is designated for missions to low Earth orbit, where emerging companies like Rocket Lab and Stoke Space can effectively compete. Lane 2, conversely, is reserved for providers with the capacity to execute the most demanding national security space missions. These missions necessitate heavy-lift rockets capable of reaching nine distinct reference orbits. The Space Force has not yet announced the companies eligible for Lane 2 contracts.
Pathways to Future Opportunities
Successful performance in Lane 1 could create opportunities for deeper involvement in Pentagon launch programs for these emerging providers. “Once Rocket Lab and Stoke Space achieve their first successful launch, they will become eligible to compete for launch service task orders within Lane 1,” noted Lt. Col. Douglas Downs, the space launch procurement lead at Space Systems Command. “We anticipate incorporating more emerging companies over the coming years as their systems reach operational readiness.”
The next opportunity for additional providers to join the Lane 1 contract is anticipated in early fiscal year 2026.