The U.S. Space Force is seeking feedback from launch providers on plans to establish a new “Mission Development Zone” at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This initiative aims to enhance capacity for payload processing, testing, assembly, and potentially manufacturing rocket and spacecraft.
Projected launch demand is expected to rise significantly over the next five to ten years, with Vandenberg anticipating nearly 200 launches annually by the decade’s end, up from 66 in 2025. To accommodate this increase, Vandenberg plans to expand facilities for launch pads, roads, and administrative support.
Space Launch Delta 30 officials are gathering input on financing, design, and infrastructure needs, emphasizing the importance of efficient processing and operations for economic growth and national security. They envision leasing land to commercial providers for facility construction, with groundbreaking expected as early as next year.
If there’s interest, the Mission Development Zone could also host on-site manufacturing of rocket components and key supplies, potentially improving operational efficiency and reducing logistical challenges associated with high commodity traffic.
