Space Force Shifts Launch Provider for GPS III SV-10 to SpaceX

The US Space Force has awarded SpaceX the launch contract for GPS III SV-10, shifting away from United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan-Centaur rocket. The Falcon 9 will launch the satellite from Cape Canaveral, with the mission expected to take place by the end of April. The decision comes after ULA’s Vulcan-Centaur was grounded due to issues with its solid rocket boosters. SpaceX will also launch the USSF-70 mission in 2028, carrying Northrop Grumman’s ROOSTER-5 refueling station. The Space Force cited the need for rapid delivery of advanced GPS capability as the reason for the change.