Victus Haze is the second iteration of the Space Force’s Tactically Responsive Space-3 (TacRS-3) mission to launch a prototype satellite within 24 hours of a “go” order, but also is designed to quickly perform an up-close on-orbit inspection of a (simulated) threatening spacecraft.
The program, called Victus Haze, builds on the on-going Space Systems Command Victus Nox mission to rapidly launch a prototype satellite for keeping tabs on objects in low Earth orbit.
Michigan’s defense ecosystem and expertise makes it a special asset for production.
China has now passed the United States in its tactically responsive space launch capabilities, according to a new report by the Center for Security and Emerging Technology.
Millennium Space Systems' Vice President of Contracts Joshua Madrigal shares how contracting plays a critical role in acquisition.
"We have spent a lot of time admiring the problem of how to be responsive in space," SSC head Lt. Gen. Michael Guetlein said. "We are done admiring the problem and we are getting after the combatant commands' need to truly protect and defend the peaceful use of space."
The Senate version of the 2022 defense appropriations bill also includes $50 million, a House aide explained, but the House version only includes $5 million.
"I'm not satisfied with the pace," Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said. "We're making some progress on the technology; I would like to see it be better."
The HASC policy bill covers everything from commercial space situational awareness to on-orbit servicing to responsive launch.
The OSP-4 contract vehicle targets both mature launch providers and emerging companies approximately one year from being launch capable, according to SMC.