Rocket System Launch Program (RSLP)

Abstract

Rocket Systems Launch Program (RSLP) is tasked to provide responsive space and Research, Development, Test and Evaluation (RDT&E) launch vehicle support to DoD and other government agencies using excess ballistic missile assets. The RSLP mission was established by the Secretary of Defense in 1972. It provides mission planning, payload integration, launch support, booster storage and disposition, aging surveillance, maintenance and logistics support for selected DoD responsive space and RDT&E launches. Costs directly attributable to a specific launch or program (e.g. reliability of flight testing, maintenance of launch vehicle processing infrastructure) are paid by the user (Air Force, Navy, Army, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Operationally Responsive Space (ORS), Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA), etc.). RSLP maintains exclusive control of deactivated Minuteman and Peacekeeper assets used in testing to include refurbishment, transportation and handling, storage, and launch services. RSLP also funds general research and development efforts for launch support operations (e.g., Minotaur IV third stage gas generator diffuser modification). RSLP includes the Ballistic Missile Range Safety Technology (BMRST), a GPS-based mobile range system, capable of stand-alone operations or augmenting other range systems. This program is in Budget Activity 06 - RDT&E Management Support, since RSLP provides research and development effort and/or operations support for general research and development use.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2011
• Source ID: 661023_0605860F_6_3600_PB_2011

Tags

Readers

• Aerospace Engineering.
• Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

• Space