Next Generation Launch System Investment
System Delta 80 is executing the National Security Space Launch program (Program Element NSSL00) for Guardians across Space Access. As a result, the Service will advance space-based technology associated with Golden Dome, deliver space domain awareness capabilities, improve readiness and operational reach of existing force structure, and ensure resilient infrastructure, equipment, and personnel. The National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program provides a space launch service that satisfies the government's National Launch Forecast (NLF) requirements to place National Security Space (NSS) space vehicles on orbit. NSSL is a launch service, not a weapon system, which is primarily funded with production funds. NSSL Phase 2 development, started late FY 2014, funds research and development activities and related studies, to include, but not limited to, investments in new and/or upgraded launch systems and associated launch facilities to meet NSS launch needs leveraging domestic commercial launch providers. The Space Force continues to provide support to monitor and close out the remaining activities for the Launch Service Agreement (LSA) public-private partnership with United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur. Future development to capitalize on new technology and innovations developed by industry may continue to utilize public-private partnerships. This program falls within the Launch mission area which provides the launch systems and corresponding ground architecture required to provide assured access to space, the movement of payloads to and from the space domain, and provision a safe and secure range for space launch operations. Program interdependencies include: EELVP (Space) - EMD (1206853SF); National Security Space Launch Program (1203953SF); Rocket System Launch Program (1206860SF); SDA Launch Procurement (1203954SF); Space Access, Mobility & Logistics (1203955SF); Spacelift Range System (1203182SF); Tactically Responsive Launch (1206862SF). This requirement supports performance of a full financial audit as required by title 10 U.S.C. Chapter 9A, Sec 240-D. This program element included all necessary expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability. The use of such program funds would be in addition to the civilian pay expenses budgeted in program elements 0605829F, 0605831F, 0605833F, and 0605898F.
FY2027 planned work Funding DoW Civilian pay expenses required to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capability. Rapidly respond to implement system resiliency and situational awareness necessary to operate in the contested space domain. Activities may include, but are not limited to program office support, studies, technical analysis, experimentation, risk reduction, prototyping, and activities that may leverage commercial, U.S. Government partnership, and international opportunities to respond to existing and emerging adversarial threats with speed and agility.
FY2026 to FY2027 change FY2027 funding decreased due to conclusion of funding for the ULA Vulcan development contract.
FY2026 plans — current year Complete required supporting analysis and technical evaluations to close Launch Service Agreement (LSA) activities. Rapidly respond to implement system resiliency and situational awareness necessary to operate in the contested space domain. Activities may include, but are not limited to program office support, studies, technical analysis, experimentation, risk reduction, prototyping, and activities that may leverage commercial, U.S. Government partnership, and international opportunities to respond to existing and emerging adversarial threats with speed and agility.