Federal Contract Vehicles

NSSL Phase 3

National Security Space Launch Phase 3

USSF/SSC IDIQ Active
Obligated to date
$2.6B
Task orders
30
Contractors
5
Ceiling
$19.3 billion

Vehicle overview

The National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 is a dual-lane acquisition program managed by the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command to provide assured access to space for the integrated space architecture. Succeeding NSSL Phase 2, the vehicle is divided into Lane 1 for commercial-like missions and Lane 2 for more demanding national security payloads. The program has a total estimated ceiling of $19.3 billion, with contracts awarded to SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, and Blue Origin. It serves as the primary launch vehicle for the Space Force, Space Development Agency, and National Reconnaissance Office.

Work categories include launch services, mission unique services, launch services support, fleet surveillance, early integration studies, and special studies.

Vehicle details

Ordering period

10-year ordering period

Ceiling

$19.3 billion

Where agencies spend through NSSL Phase 3

See which agencies and types of work reported the most positive obligations through NSSL Phase 3 in the last 12 months.

Coverage period Jul 28, 2025–Jul 27, 2026

NSSL Phase 3 contract holders

Contractor Obligated Task orders
SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP. $1.9B 18
UNITED LAUNCH SERVICES, LLC $560.6M 8
BLUE ORIGIN, LLC $105.0M 2
ROCKET LAB USA INC $5.0M 1
STOKE SPACE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. $5.0M 1

NAICS coverage

NAICS 481212

Frequently asked questions

What is NSSL Phase 3?
The National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 is a dual-lane acquisition program managed by the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command to provide assured access to space for the integrated space architecture. Succeeding NSSL Phase 2, the vehicle is divided into Lane 1 for commercial-like missions and Lane 2 for more demanding national security payloads. The program has a total estimated ceiling of $19.3 billion, with contracts awarded to SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, and Blue Origin. It serves as the primary launch vehicle for the Space Force, Space Development Agency, and National Reconnaissance Office.
Which agency manages NSSL Phase 3?
National Security Space Launch Phase 3 is a IDIQ managed by Department of the Air Force – Space Systems Command.
What can agencies acquire through NSSL Phase 3?
Work categories include launch services, mission unique services, launch services support, fleet surveillance, early integration studies, and special studies.
How much has been obligated through NSSL Phase 3?
$2.6B has been obligated across 30 task orders.
Which agencies use NSSL Phase 3?
In the 12 months ending July 27, 2026, agencies with reported awards through NSSL Phase 3 included the Department of Defense. The Department of Defense reported $1.6B in positive obligations for Nonscheduled Chartered Freight Air Transportation (NAICS 481212). Figures use reported USAspending award data.
How many contractors hold NSSL Phase 3?
5 contractors hold a position on NSSL Phase 3.
What is the contract ceiling of NSSL Phase 3?
NSSL Phase 3 has a program ceiling of $19.3 billion.
Is NSSL Phase 3 active?
Yes, NSSL Phase 3 is currently active (ordering period: 10-year ordering period).

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