United Launch Alliance (ULA) aimed to significantly increase its Vulcan rocket launch cadence in 2025, but it appears the company will fall short of its initial projections. ULA’s CEO Tory Bruno had anticipated up to 20 missions this year, split between the Atlas V and the newer Vulcan rocket. However, it seems ULA will conclude the year with only six launches, with the Vulcan rocket making just one flight, marking a slower-than-expected rollout.
Last week, ULA revealed that its next launch is scheduled for December 15, involving an Atlas V rocket carrying broadband satellites for the Amazon Leo network. This upcoming launch will be ULA’s final mission for the year. The Vulcan rocket’s sole flight in 2025 occurred in August when it successfully completed a national security mission for the US Space Force, underscoring its role in critical space operations.
ULA’s performance this year pales in comparison to SpaceX, the other certified NSSL launch provider, which has conducted 151 Falcon 9 missions in 2025, including several for the Space Force. Despite ongoing concerns about the Vulcan rocket’s capabilities, particularly within the Pentagon, ULA remains a key player in delivering vital satellites for national defense and security purposes.
Source: Ars Technica