Vandenberg offers new launch site for small and medium rockets

2026-06-11 · Source: SpaceNews · Field: Transportation & Mobility — Aviation & Aerospace, Transportation Infrastructure · Depth: Intermediate, short

Summary

The U.S. Space Force is offering a new launch site, Space Launch Complex (SLC) 9, at Vandenberg Space Force Base for small- and medium-class launch vehicles. A Request for Information (RFI) was released June 8, with responses due July 8, seeking interest from launch vehicle operators. This initiative aims to promote launch industry growth and meet "critical national security objectives," enhancing resilience and agility in space operations. SLC-9 is designated for small launch vehicles with payload capacities under 2,000 kilograms and medium launch vehicles with capacities between 2,000 and 20,000 kilograms. Companies must demonstrate sufficient financial and technical maturity, including the ability to commence launch operations within three years of an agreement. The Space Force is also interested in additional capabilities like point-to-point cargo delivery, payload return, vehicle reuse, and "survivability," addressing concerns about strained launch capacity at existing facilities.

Key takeaway

For launch vehicle operators seeking new facilities or expanding capabilities, Vandenberg's SLC-9 presents a significant opportunity. You should evaluate your financial and technical readiness to meet the RFI's requirements, especially the three-year launch operations timeline. Consider how your vehicle, particularly medium-class designs, can serve high-inclination orbits or offer advanced services like cargo return, and submit your interest by July 8.

Key insights

Vandenberg's SLC-9 offers a new launch site for small-to-medium rockets, aiming to boost industry and national security.

Principles

• Launch site availability is a strategic priority.
• Industry growth supports national security objectives.
• Technical and financial maturity are key for new sites.

Method

The Space Force issues an RFI for SLC-9, requiring companies to demonstrate financial and technical maturity, including the ability to launch within three years, and propose additional capabilities.

In practice

• Respond to the SLC-9 RFI by July 8.
• Develop medium-class vehicles for high-inclination orbits.
• Consider sea-based launch platforms for capacity.

Topics

• Space Launch Complex 9
• Vandenberg Space Force Base
• Small Launch Vehicles
• Medium Launch Vehicles
• Space Force RFI
• National Security Space

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by SpaceNews.