SpaceX to Take Over U.S. Space Force Launch Mission for GPS Satellite

SpaceX is set to take on a significant mission for the U.S. Space Force by launching a GPS satellite as part of the GPS III series. This mission, initially assigned to United Launch Alliance (ULA), will see the GPS III SV-08 satellite launched into orbit on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

The GPS III satellite lineup is designed to enhance accuracy, anti-jamming capabilities, and synchronization with global navigation systems. The decision to shift the mission from ULA to SpaceX aims to address a backlog of satellites that were originally scheduled for ULA launches.

This is not the first time the U.S. Space Force has reassigned a mission from ULA to SpaceX. In a similar move last year, SpaceX successfully launched the GPS III SV-07 satellite on its Falcon 9 rocket, taking over from ULA’s Vulcan rocket. This demonstrates the Space Systems Command’s ability to expedite launches and meet critical timelines.

Colonel Jim Horne, the leader of launch execution at Space Systems Command, highlighted the agility of the reassignment process, stating that it showcases the ability to launch within months rather than the typical two-year timeframe. This shift also involves reassigning a future GPS IIIF-1 launch from SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy to ULA’s Vulcan rocket to balance contracts and commitments with launch providers.

While ULA’s Vulcan rocket recently received certification under the National Security Space Launch Program, it has faced development delays and a backlog of military launches under its NSSL Phase 2 contract. As SpaceX continues to make strides in the space industry, ULA is under pressure to accelerate its Vulcan launches and meet the demands of the NSSL program.