Analysis: SpaceX Cuts Rocket Launch Costs for USAF
In recent months CFIF has highlighted the danger of relying upon Russian rocket technology, and the need to leverage the U.S. private sector in providing effective, lower cost, domestic rocket engines for space launches.
Now, a new analysis reveals how much one of those private sector entities, SpaceX, can save the U.S. Air Force. Previous cost estimates occurred when Air Force launch vehicles consisted entirely of United Launch Alliance (ULA) rockets, but the Government Accountability Office (GAO) complained that ULA’s rendered accurate cost assessment and price negotiation impossible. Then, new rocket enterprise SpaceX began offering launch services at lower prices, and cost comparison has become more feasible. And it’s already apparent that SpaceX significantly undercuts launch costs. Here’s what new Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson had to say earlier this month:
The benefit we’re seeing now is competition. There are some very exciting things happening in commercial space that bring the opportunity for assured access to space at a very competitive price.”
The arstechnica.com analysis by Eric Berger merits a full read.
It’s just the latest confirmation that we must leverage market competition to increase effectiveness and cut costs, rather than narrow the field or rely upon Russia for our launch capability.
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