SpaceX, ULA set to win US Space Force rocket launch contracts
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These contracts will see both companies responsible for launching some of the Pentagon's most sensitive satellites into space over the coming years.
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Elon Musk arrives on Air Force One at Philadelphia International Airport, March 22, 2025, in Philadelphia (AP)
Billionaire and CEO Elon Musk's SpaceX and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are expected to secure multi-billion dollar contracts from the US Space Force on Friday, according to two sources familiar with the procurement decision.
These contracts will see both companies responsible for launching some of the Pentagon's most sensitive satellites into space over the coming years.
The contracts are part of the Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) procurement program, which is set to assign approximately 50 missions through 2029. These will be distributed through incremental task orders, with SpaceX and ULA among the anticipated winners.
The Space Force’s Space Systems Command, which oversees the NSSL program, did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the decision.
Musk wants to reallocate NASA resources
Musk is reportedly working to revise NASA’s programs and budget to prioritize a human mission to Mars, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
The report claims that Musk is aiming to redistribute federal spending, modify NASA’s projects, and appoint allies who will support his vision of sending humans to the Red Planet.
Citing sources within SpaceX, the publication suggests that Musk has sought to influence NASA’s strategic direction in favor of Mars exploration.
According to insiders, Musk has also attempted to gain the backing of US President Donald Trump, arguing that facilitating a mission to Mars would secure Trump’s legacy in history.
These ambitions could significantly impact SpaceX, which is already one of NASA’s largest contractors and a dominant force in space technology, the report noted.
Using position to get deals?
According to a report by The New York Times, current and former officials worry that Musk's proximity to power may give his company an unfair advantage.
SpaceX has reportedly taken steps to secure new support from federal agencies, including submitting multiple requests to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for expanded launch capabilities.
These include proposals to build additional rocket launch sites and to increase launch frequency from government-owned spaceports in Florida and California. The FAA is said to be moving toward approving a request that would double the number of Falcon 9 rocket launches from Florida to 120 annually.
Musk's involvement in federal policymaking has led some media outlets to refer to him as a "shadow president". He currently holds a key advisory position in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a consultative body aimed at reforming federal operations and reducing waste.
