The U.S. Space Force is requesting industry input to identify launch providers that could support up to 25 high-priority National Security Space Launch Phase 3 missions scheduled for fiscal years 2027 to 2029.
Space Systems Command posted a sources sought notice on SAM.gov on Tuesday to assess whether additional companies beyond current providers can meet requirements for emergent missions involving the most risk-sensitive national security payloads. The missions include six launches in FY2027, nine in FY2028 and 10 in FY2029.
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What Are the Requirements for Emergent Missions?
The Space Force said the missions will require NSSL-certified launch providers capable of executing complex profiles, including direct insertion of heavy payloads into geosynchronous and medium Earth orbits; conducting multi-manifest launches; and meeting full mission assurance requirements, including validated launch vehicle readiness and certification.
Because of the high-risk nature of these missions, the government indicated it plans to procure them through existing Phase 3 Lane 2 contracts.
Only SpaceX and United Launch Alliance are the certified launch providers for the NSSL program. Other companies that could meet launch requirements no later than Oct. 1 of the procurement fiscal year are invited to submit a statement of capability. The document must outline how they would meet certification, technical and mission assurance requirements for demonstrating launch vehicle readiness and delivering payloads to specified orbits.
Responses to the request for information are due May 5.
What is the NSSL Phase 3 Acquisition Strategy?
The NSSL Phase 3 acquisition approach separates missions into two lanes based on risk tolerance.
Lane 1 supports launches where the government can accept higher levels of risk and has been structured to expand the industrial base. The Space Force selected Blue Origin, SpaceX and ULA for the Lane 1 contract and later added Rocket Lab and Stoke Space through an on-ramp process to increase competition and capacity.
Lane 2, by contrast, is reserved for missions requiring the highest reliability standards. In April 2025, SSC awarded contracts totaling approximately $13.68 billion to SpaceX, ULA and Blue Origin for Lane 2 services through 2029.
