美國太空軍斥資135億美元與三家發射公司簽訂合同

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(Miguel J. Rodríguez Carrillo/Getty Images)

美國太空軍近期宣布，與SpaceX、聯合發射聯盟（ULA）和藍色起源（Blue Origin）簽訂總額達135億美元的發射合同，計劃在2027至2032財年期間執行多項發射任務。

合同細節與分配

• SpaceX：獲得59億美元合同，執行28次發射任務。
• ULA：獲得53億美元合同，執行19次發射任務。
• 藍色起源：獲得23億美元合同，執行7次發射任務。

這些合同是太空軍「國家安全太空發射」（NSSL）計劃的一部分，旨在確保美國國防部的關鍵太空任務能夠順利進行。

新進入者的角色

值得注意的是，藍色起源首次成為NSSL計劃的承包商。其新格倫（New Glenn）火箭在2025年1月完成首飛後，獲得了競標資格。太空軍計劃在2027至2032財年期間執行84次發射任務，幾乎是前五年發射次數的兩倍。

戰略意義

太空軍的這一舉措旨在增加發射能力和靈活性，以滿足日益增長的國家安全需求。這些合同的簽訂也反映了美國在太空領域的持續投資，並顯示出對新興太空企業的信任與支持。

U.S. Space Force Awards $13.5 Billion in Contracts to Three Launch Firms

The U.S. Space Force recently announced contracts totaling $13.5 billion with SpaceX, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and Blue Origin for multiple launch missions planned between fiscal years 2027 and 2032. 

Contract Details and Allocation

• SpaceX: Awarded $5.9 billion for 28 launch missions.
• ULA: Awarded $5.3 billion for 19 launch missions.
• Blue Origin: Awarded $2.3 billion for 7 launch missions. 

These contracts are part of the Space Force’s National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, aimed at ensuring the Department of Defense’s critical space missions proceed smoothly.

Role of New Entrants

Notably, Blue Origin has become an NSSL contractor for the first time. Its New Glenn rocket qualified for bidding after its maiden flight in January 2025. The Space Force plans to conduct 84 launch missions between fiscal years 2027 and 2032, nearly doubling the number from the previous five years. 

Strategic Significance

This move by the Space Force aims to increase launch capacity and flexibility to meet the growing demands of national security. The awarding of these contracts also reflects the U.S.’s continued investment in the space sector and demonstrates trust and support for emerging space enterprises.