dec 21, 2004 - National Security Presidential Directive (NSPD-40)

Description:

"This directive stated that 'the Secretary of Defense shall be the launch agent for the national security sector and shall maintain the capability to develop, evolve, operate, and purchase services for those space transportation systems, infrastructure, and support activities necessary to meet national security requirements.' The directive went on to say, 'The Secretary of Defense shall maintain overall management responsibilities for the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle program and shall fund the annual fixed costs for both launch services providers…'"
https://www.afspc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/249026/evolved-expendable-launch-vehicle/

https://fas.org/irp/offdocs/nspd/nspd-40.pdf

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