The U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command, or SSC, has awarded SpaceX a $178.5 million task order for additional launches under the National Security Space Launch Phase 3 Lane 1 program.
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What Does the SDA-4 Task Order Include?
SSC said Wednesday the award covers two launches for the Space Development Agency, scheduled to begin in the third quarter of fiscal 2027. One launch will take place from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, while the other will lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The missions will deploy multiple Sierra Space-developed missile tracking satellites into orbit to support warfighter requirements and strengthen national defense capabilities. The SDA-4 award builds on previous task orders that also support missile warning and tracking missions, including the nine task orders totaling $739 million awarded to SpaceX in January.
How Does the Award Fit Into the NSSL Phase 3 Framework?
The SDA-4 award follows a series of nine task orders worth $739 million previously issued to SpaceX in early 2026 to support both the SDA and the National Reconnaissance Office. By utilizing the Lane 1 contract vehicle, SSC aims to deliver resilient space capabilities faster than prior procurement models.
USSF Col. Matt Flahive, system program director for launch acquisition at SSC, noted the dual-lane Phase 3 strategy ensures the reliable delivery of assets to the joint force. “Our Lane 1 contract affords us the flexibility to deliver satellites for our customers, like SDA, more easily and faster than ever before to all the orbits our satellites need to reach,” said Flahive.
