Sec. 1608. Policy to ensure launch of small-class payloads
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/bill/116/hr/6395/enr/section-1608·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
The Secretary of Defense shall establish a small launch and satellite policy to ensure responsive and reliable access to space through the processing and launch of Department of Defense small-class payloads. The policy under subsection
(a)shall include, at a minimum, providing resources and policy guidance to sustain— the availability of small-class payload launch service providers using launch vehicles capable of delivering into space small payloads designated by the Secretary of Defense as a national security payload; a robust small-class payload space launch infrastructure and industrial base, including small launch systems and small satellite rideshare opportunities; the availability of rapid, responsive, and reliable space launches for national security space programs to— improve the responsiveness and flexibility of a national security space system; lower the costs of launching a national security space system; and maintain risks to mission success at acceptable levels; a minimum number of dedicated launches each year; and full and open competition, including small launch providers and rideshare opportunities.