The US Department of Defense (DoD) has allowed a reused SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket booster to lift off the US Space Force’s (USSF) fifth global positioning system (GPS 3 SV05) satellite.

The national security satellite is set for launch from Florida, US, on 17 June, marking another milestone in the GPS III programme for the Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) and USSF.

The Falcon 9 was used to launch the GPS III SV04 satellite in November last year.

In a briefing on 14 June, USSF SMC deputy mission director Walter Lauderdal was quoted by CNBC as saying: “In preparation for this first-time event we’ve worked closely with SpaceX to understand the refurbishment processes and are confident that this rocket is ready for its next flight.”

He added: “We continue to work with [SpaceX] and, looking ahead to the SV06 mission next year … we’ll be working with them as to what boosters are available.

“We are certainly open to using other boosters not just ones that have flown [for Space Force].

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“Taken as a whole, our disciplined approach is part of an uncompromising dedication to mission success executed one launch at a time.”

So far, the US DoD has awarded SpaceX with five of the six GPS III satellite launch contracts valued at $469.8m.

The GPS III SV02 mission was the only one launched by United Launch Alliance (ULA).

The GPS III SV06, 07 and 08 satellites are fully assembled. They are undergoing environmental testing at the company’s GPS III Processing Facility in Denver.

GPS III SV09 and 10 are in the component build-up stage, noted the company.