The U.S. Space Force has selected Rocket Lab and Stoke Space to participate in national security launch contracts, increasing the number of private companies competing for a significant portion of a multibillion-dollar program designed to improve the military's access to space. The Space Systems Command, the service's procurement branch, revealed on March 27 that Rocket Lab and Stoke Space will join Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) in the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 program.
This indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract enables companies to bid on launch service orders until 2029, with at least 30 missions anticipated, totaling an estimated $5.6 billion in task orders. The addition of new competitors reflects the Space Force's efforts to increase launch capacity. “With today’s award, the Space Force expanded our portfolio of launch systems able to deliver critical space capability. These new partners bring innovative approaches and increased competition,” said Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, the Space Force’s program executive officer for assured access to space.
Rocket Lab and Stoke Space, both representing a new wave of launch providers creating medium-lift rockets, received initial $5 million task orders. Rocket Lab, known for its Electron small satellite launcher, is developing Neutron, a reusable carbon-composite rocket capable of carrying up to 13 metric tons into orbit. Neutron's first launch from Wallops Island, Virginia, is planned for late 2025. Stoke Space, a newer company, is designing Nova, a fully reusable medium-lift vehicle. The company recently completed a significant milestone by successfully testing the Zenith engine, which will power Nova's first stage.
Both companies will receive an initial $5 million task order for a capabilities assessment and to establish their individual mission assurance processes—a government evaluation method for assessing launch vehicle risks. The NSSL Phase 3 structure differs from previous procurements by employing a dual-lane system to accommodate a wider range of providers. Lane 1, the entry-level tier, is for low Earth orbit missions, where newer companies like Rocket Lab and Stoke Space can compete. In contrast, Lane 2 is for providers capable of handling the most demanding national security missions, requiring heavy-lift rockets capable of reaching nine different reference orbits.
The Space Force hasn't yet declared which companies will be eligible for Lane 2 contracts. For emerging providers, success in Lane 1 could lead to more significant involvement in the Pentagon's launch programs. “Once Rocket Lab and Stoke Space complete their first successful launch, they will be eligible to compete for launch service task orders on Lane 1,” said Lt. Col. Douglas Downs, who leads space launch procurement at Space Systems Command. “We look forward to on-ramping more emerging companies over the next few years as their systems become ready.” The next chance for additional providers to join the Lane 1 contract will be in early fiscal year 2026.