Air Force Study Recommends New Space Launch Site

A Department of the Air Force study concludes that the Space Force will likely need a new launch facility to address capacity constraints at existing sites. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told the House Armed Services Committee that the study recommends a site capable of heavy and super heavy launch operations. The findings are working through internal review before being sent to Congress.

The Space Force has warned that rising launch demand from both national security and commercial customers is straining its two existing ranges. Lt. Gen. David Miller, Space Force deputy for Strategy, Plans, Programs and Requirements, said the service alone expects about 1,000 missions between fiscal 2027 and 2031.

An upcoming report by the Commercial Space Foundation projects that the broader space community could require as many as 7,000 launches annually, with some vehicle types facing capacity limits as soon as 2030.

Next Steps Chief of Space Operations Gen.

Chance Saltzman said the first priority is to maximize use of current infrastructure. Officials will continue evaluating options for additional facilities while the study moves through the legislative process.