Blue Origin is making strides in space travel with its New Glenn rocket, which aims to support national security missions. Founded by Jeff Bezos, the company is halfway through its journey to launch these important missions.
During a recent event, Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, the head of the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command, shared updates on Blue Origin’s progress. The company has a plan for four launches to gain certification to conduct national security missions under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) contract. So far, they’ve successfully launched two New Glenn rockets, recovering their first stage booster on the second flight.
Garrant expressed optimism, stating that if the next two launches go well, Blue Origin could become a certified provider. “We’re pleased with their progress,” he noted. In April 2025, Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) were selected as the top contenders to launch the government’s national security payloads.
SpaceX is set to handle about 60% of these upcoming missions, while ULA will manage around 40%. Once certified, Blue Origin will be tasked with seven missions under this contract. However, Garrant cautioned that a full review process must take place before they can receive the green light for national security payloads.
Historically, the process for launch certification has not changed much over time. But adaptability is key. Tom Martin, a senior leader at Blue Origin, spoke at the SpacePower conference about the need for the certification process to evolve. New technologies should be integrated into how launches are certified as the industry advances.
Recently, Blue Origin announced an upgraded super-heavy lift version of New Glenn, equipped with nine BE-4 engines. This advancement could significantly enhance their launch capabilities.
As the demand for space missions grows, experts emphasize the importance of reliable launch services. The National Defense Authorization Act suggests that reliable access to space is critical for U.S. national security. With companies like Blue Origin entering the fray, the landscape of space launch services is becoming increasingly competitive.
Public interest in space travel is also on the rise, demonstrated by trending conversations on social media about upcoming launches and innovations in technology. People are keen to see how these advancements will shape the future.
For more on this subject, you can check reports from trusted sources like [NASA](https://www.nasa.gov/) and [the U.S. Space Force](https://www.spaceforce.mil/).
