Critical Change for Vandenberg Base Staff: New Infrastructure Roadmap for Heavy and Superheavy Launches
U.S. Space Force and Space Launch Delta 30 (SLD 30) are driving the need for new capacity at Vandenberg Base, located in the heart of the West Coast. The Request for Information (RFI), published on December 29, 2025, aims to measure the willingness of commercial launch service providers to establish infrastructure suitable for projects exceeding medium and heavy payloads. Current infrastructure does not fully accommodate components for heavy payloads in the 20,000–50,000 kg range and super-heavy launch programs in the >50,000 kg class; This situation was delaying the implementation of new generation programs. Now, with the development of SLC-14, this gap will be closed and the country’s independent launch capabilities will be strengthened.
Advanced Launch Capacity and Safety
The key points highlighted in the RFI are that infrastructure costs are undertaken by contractor companies and the possibility of using these facilities through the rental model. Heavy and superheavy launch capabilities planned at VSFB will directly increase the operational flexibility of the U.S. Space Force. The ability to send large and diverse satellite configurations provides speed for national security missions and critical operations. Additionally, infrastructure expansion increases base resilience and supply chain security; This is of critical importance to meet the necessary time and capacity.
In terms of security, new launch infrastructures include multi-layered measures such as high-reliability power and air conditioning systems, built-in network security and fire prevention solutions. Additionally, imaging and telemetry infrastructures will be strengthened for operational awareness; In this way, it is possible to monitor launch operations and to quickly intervene in faulty situations. In this context, expanded hangar areas and high lifting capacity ramps offer reconfigurable equipment to contractor companies.
Strategic Role and Position of SLC-14
SLC-14’s location near the base’s southern border facilitates transportation access, providing a critical advantage for high-intensity operations. This region, identified as the most suitable area especially for “large-scale” heavy or super-heavy launch programs, can offer ideal configurations for sun-synchronous orbit and polar payloads. Combined with the base’s existing infrastructure, flexible services for national security missions and commercial customers are increased.
This strategic location is also advantageous in terms of export restrictions and transportation security of international cargo. Infrastructure expansion in the region provides capabilities that can support multiple launch programs simultaneously; Thus, problems such as supply chain breaks or production delays can be quickly compensated for. In this regard, critical elements such as reconfigurable logistics centers, strengthened operational redundancy and refueling security come to the fore.
Future Plans and Participation Process
Interested companies must submit their offers by February 12, 2026. This process envisages infrastructure development, design and construction costs being covered by the contractor. Under the RFI, participants must submit clear proposals on leasing models, long-term maintenance agreements and operational flexibility. Additionally, regional economic impacts, workforce skills and local supply chain integration will be evaluated in the context of local cooperation and international partnerships.
As a first objective, return on investment (ROI) calculations are made for the integration of heavy and superheavy launch infrastructures; However, national security capacities and commercial competitiveness are targeted. Public-private partnerships and highly secure supply chain solutions play a key role in completing projects on time. This dynamic is central not only to technical performance, but also to strategic trajectory planning and defense industry integration.
Long-Term Impact: US Independent Launch Ecosystem
New infrastructures directly serve the United States’ goals of diversifying its launch capabilities and gaining independence. In the face of increasing demand of commercial payloads, high-capacity launch modules and flexible operation models strengthen the launch market in the country. Additionally, through capacity sharing to international customers and compliance with sovereign priorities, the United States can respond more quickly to critical communications, drone, and satellite-based missions. In this context, reliable supply chain and innovative engineering solutions provide a secure basis for future programs.
Current Technical Specifications and Operational Requirements
The RFI clarifies altitude, power recovery, cooling and fire safety standards, especially for high-payload launch systems. Comprehensive solutions are demanded not only in terms of size, but also in terms of high trigger security, telemetry and communication, recording and analysis infrastructures. This provides a single integration point for high-accuracy positioning and assured operations. It includes elements such as layout plans, hangar and workshop areas, fuel tanks and push/pull forces. This comprehensive approach is critical for flexibility of use and reduction of maintenance costs.
In the first instance, domestic needs are met through recruitment and local skills development programmes; Then, space is opened for capacity sharing and R&D activities through international partnerships. Thus, the localization rate increases and long-term operational sustainability is ensured. Additionally, operational security is maximized with adjustable operational calendars and simulation of the risks experienced.
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