U.S. Space Force Certifies ULA's Vulcan Rocket for National Security Missions

The U.S. Space Force, through its Space Systems Command (SSC), has officially certified United Launch Alliance's (ULA) Vulcan launch system for National Security Space Launch (NSSL) missions. This milestone follows a rigorous multi-year evaluation process, confirming that the Vulcan rocket meets the stringent requirements for carrying critical national security payloads. With this certification, Vulcan is now cleared to launch vital U.S. military and intelligence satellites, strengthening the nation’s space-based defense capabilities.

Vulcan effectively steps into the roles previously held by the venerable Atlas V and Delta IV rockets, both cornerstones of the U.S. government's former Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program, which evolved into the NSSL program.

“Assured access to space is a core function of the Space Force and a critical element of national security,” said Brig. Gen. Panzenhagen, Program Executive Officer for Assured Access to Space. “Vulcan certification adds launch capacity, resiliency, and flexibility needed by our nation’s most critical space-based systems.”

Earning this certification required ULA to meet 52 distinct criteria, covering more than 180 individual tasks. The extensive evaluation included two certification flight demonstrations, verification of 60 payload interface requirements, 18 subsystem design and test reviews, and 114 hardware and software audits. These rigorous assessments established a solid technical foundation, allowing the Space Force to make informed flight worthiness determinations for future NSSL missions. The thorough process reflects the Space Force’s commitment to ensuring the reliability and precision of launch systems entrusted with sensitive national security payloads.

Renewed Competition in the Launch Market

Vulcan’s certification marks a significant advancement for both ULA and the U.S. Space Force. By adding another qualified launch vehicle to the NSSL program, the certification enhances the nation’s assured access to space, providing greater capacity, resilience, and operational flexibility. ULA is now positioned to play a central role in future national security launches, reinforcing the U.S. military’s strategic advantage in space.

Vulcan’s certification also reshapes the competitive landscape of national security space launches. For years, ULA dominated this sector, only to face increasing competition from SpaceX’s Falcon rockets, which introduced cost-effective alternatives. Now, with Vulcan officially certified, the Space Force has a crucial second provider, ensuring diversified launch capabilities and reducing reliance on a single company. This renewed competition is expected to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and potentially lower costs, all while strengthening national security. ULA’s resurgence ensures that SpaceX will no longer have unchallenged dominance in the NSSL market, reinforcing a more balanced and competitive launch ecosystem.