The U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command unveiled that the United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan launch system has been certified for National Security Space Launch missions.
The SSC said Wednesday ULA is now one of two providers allowed to launch NSSL missions.
The NSSL certification involves a strict evaluation process to determine the capabilities of launch service providers, particularly their ability to design, manufacture and qualify a launch system meant to deploy national security space satellites.
Leaders’ Remarks on the USSF Certification
“We are proud to have launched 100 national security space missions and honored to continue serving the nation with our new Vulcan rocket,” said Tory Bruno, president and CEO of United Launch Alliance. “We thank the Space Force for their collaboration and confidence and we are honored to support our national security needs for many years to come,” the Wash100 Award winner added.
Brig. Gen. Kristin Panzenhagen, program executive officer for assured access to space, stated, “Assured access to space is a core function of the Space Force and a critical element of national security. Vulcan certification adds launch capacity, resiliency and flexibility needed by our nation’s most critical space-based systems.”
“The SSC and ULA teams have worked together extremely closely, and certification of this launch system is a direct result of their focus, dedication, and teamwork,” added Panzenhagen.
