USSF Expands Impulse Space Fleet for Dynamic Orbit Missions
The U.S. Space Force has modified a contract with Impulse Space, adding $28 million to procure two additional Mira spacecraft for high-maneuverability tactical missions.
Tactical Mobility Expansion
The U.S. Space Force (USSF) has expanded its commitment to orbital maneuverability, adding $28 million to an existing contract with Impulse Space. According to SpaceNews, this modification secures two additional spacecraft—designated Victus Salo 2 and Victus Salo 3—bringing the total contract value to approximately $62.8 million.
The Mira Platform
The procurement centers on Impulse’s Mira vehicle, a high-thrust spacecraft engineered for rapid orbital adjustments. Mira utilizes a chemical propulsion system burning nitrous oxide and ethane via eight thrusters. Capable of hosting payloads up to 300kg, the platform is designed to provide military operators with "tactically responsive" options, moving beyond static orbital positions to active, agile deployment.
Mission Objectives
The new order builds upon the previous Victus Surgo and Victus Salo 1 agreements. While Victus Salo 1 focuses on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) operations with government payloads from MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Victus Surgo is more technically demanding. It involves the Helios high-energy kick stage transporting a Mira vehicle from LEO to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) for independent maneuvering.
Strategic Context
Founded by former SpaceX executive Tom Mueller, Impulse Space is rapidly integrating into the Pentagon's architecture. The company was recently added to the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 contract, positioning it as a key provider for upper-stage transportation. Victus Salo 1 is currently scheduled for a 2027 launch, signaling a shift in Space Force doctrine from rapid launch to sustained, agile on-orbit mobility.