SpaceX declines three US military launch contracts amid capacity concerns
SpaceX declined three US Space Force satellite launch contracts, and no other rocket company offered to take them on. The decision highlights pressure on the military’s launch plans as demand for rockets grows and available capacity becomes a concern.
Elsewhere, Spain’s PLD Space says its Miura 5 small rocket is nearing final integration, with a first flight targeted before mid-2027. Canadian startup Reaction Dynamics is seeking $350 million to expand and develop its Aurora rocket for 2028 and a larger Borealis vehicle for 2031; Rocket Lab also scheduled Electron’s 98th launch, carrying three satellites.
In short
- SpaceX turned down three military launch contracts.
- No other rocket firms offered to fly the missions.
- Rocket developers in Spain and Canada are advancing new vehicles.
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Originally published by Ars Technica as “Rocket Report: SpaceX says no thanks to military launches; Spanish rocket nearly ready”.