National Security Space Launch Program (SPACE) - EMD

The National Security Space Launch Program, managed by the Space Force, aims to provide reliable space launch services to meet the government's National Launch Forecast requirements. This initiative focuses on placing National Security Space vehicles into orbit, leveraging domestic commercial launch providers. The program emphasizes research and development activities, including investments in new or upgraded launch systems and associated facilities. These efforts are designed to ensure that the United States maintains a robust capability for space access, mobility, and logistics through public-private partnerships.

A key component of the program is the Next Generation Launch System Investment, which supports the development of advanced launch capabilities. This includes continued collaboration with United Launch Alliance (ULA) for the Vulcan Centaur launch system, focusing on achieving heavy lift capabilities and full operational status. The program also seeks to enhance system resiliency and situational awareness in contested space environments. By promoting competition among domestic providers, it aims to lower procurement costs while sustaining the U.S. industrial base.

The program also includes initiatives such as orbital transfer, on-orbit servicing, and debris removal technologies. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to address emerging needs for space access and logistics. Additionally, the program integrates Department of Defense payloads onto commercially procured launch services when feasible. It also allocates resources for civilian pay expenses necessary for managing and executing these capabilities.

The National Security Space Launch Program is committed to ensuring assured access to space as mandated by U.S. law. It continues to invest in public-private partnerships and innovative technologies to maintain American leadership in space launch capabilities while transitioning away from reliance on non-allied propulsion systems.