National Security Space Launch Program (SPACE) - EMD

The National Security Space Launch Program (PE 1206853SF) is a key initiative managed by the Space Force under the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) appropriation. Its primary objective is to provide reliable space launch services that meet the National Launch Forecast (NLF) requirements, enabling the placement of National Security Space (NSS) vehicles into orbit. The program is not a weapon system but a launch service, and its funding supports both the development and demonstration of new and upgraded launch systems, as well as associated launch facilities. The program leverages domestic commercial launch providers to ensure assured access to space for critical national security missions.

Next Generation Launch System Investment (Project 650006) is the central line item within this program element, focusing on investments in advanced launch system prototypes and infrastructure. The goals include the development and maturation of commercial launch systems through Launch Service Agreements (LSAs) and Rocket Propulsion System (RPS) Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements. These efforts are designed to ensure that at least two domestic launch providers are certified to meet all NSS requirements, thereby ending reliance on non-allied propulsion systems such as the Russian RD-180 engine. The project also includes investments in next-generation rocket engine testing and upper stage resiliency enhancements to support more demanding national security launch needs.

A significant portion of recent funding has been directed toward the development and certification of the Vulcan Centaur launch system through a Launch Service Agreement with United Launch Alliance (ULA). The objectives include completing heavy-lift (Category C) capabilities and achieving Full Operational Capability (FOC) for Vulcan Centaur. These investments are intended to facilitate the transition from legacy launch vehicles to modern, commercially viable systems, enhancing the resilience and responsiveness of U.S. space launch operations in a contested domain. Technical maturation, risk reduction, and situational awareness activities are also included, leveraging public-private partnerships to accelerate innovation and system readiness.

Another key objective within the program is the development of Payload Processing Facilities at major launch sites. Congressional adds in FY 2024 and FY 2025 have provided funding for the establishment of payload processing capabilities at Vandenberg Space Force Base (West Coast) and Cape Canaveral Space Force Base (East Coast). These facilities are designed to support the processing requirements of NSS satellite vehicles, ensuring efficient and secure integration prior to launch. Acquisition for these facilities is being conducted through Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), which encourages competitive proposals from industry to identify innovative approaches and technologies that best meet mission needs.

The program also supports technical mission analysis, enterprise system engineering and integration (SE&I), and LNG/LOX characterization testing. These activities are essential for validating launch system performance, integrating new technologies, and ensuring mission assurance. Funding is allocated to both organic civilian support and contracted management services, including advisory and assistance services, to manage, execute, and deliver program objectives. Civilian pay expenses are tracked separately and are necessary for program management and oversight.

The acquisition strategy for the National Security Space Launch Program emphasizes continued execution of Phase 2 public-private partnership investments and enabling investments. The strategy is designed to meet requirements for Assured Access to Space (AATS), as codified in 10 USC 2273, and to comply with Congressional direction to eliminate U.S. reliance on non-allied propulsion systems. By leveraging commercial and international opportunities, the program aims to rapidly respond to emerging adversarial threats and maintain U.S. leadership in space launch capabilities.