SpaceX Brings Legal Action on Air Force Rocket Contracts 'Incorrectly Attributed'

The company also highlighted other criteria that it believed should have been highlighted, including its ability to reduce costs and to offer "commercially viable" vehicles. According to SpaceX, rivals should "rely exclusively" on government contracts and thereby drain taxpayers' money. ULA was even going to rely on Russian rocket engines, going against the government's goal of reducing reliance on Russian equipment. SpaceX further noted that Blue Origin and Northrop delayed their development programs shortly after winning their contracts, canceling the promises they had made while they were fighting for the Force's money. Aerial.

In addition to that, SpaceX said that it had tried to challenge the sentences through a neutral resolution process, but that the Air Force had refused and n & # 39; Had provided a vague rejection and summary of the company's arguments. In addition to this, the lawsuit accused officials of changing the criteria of the contract without giving SpaceX or others the answer.

If successful, the lawsuit would require the Air Force to suspend its investments, reevaluate its bids and potentially "make a new award decision" on the basis new conditions.

In a statement, a spokesman for SpaceX told Engadget that the company was doing well with the continuation of the second phase of its rocket supply process "as currently planned", but "disapproves" with the initial choice . The private space flight company has taken legal action to "ensure a level playing field for all," the spokesman said.

It is difficult to say whether the SpaceX trial will succeed. Although the lawsuit shows some reason to believe that SpaceX was the victim of an unfair process, critics might call it sour grape – it's crazy to lose and want to prevent its competitors from gaining the upper hand. The Air Force is not likely to be receptive as it has already rejected SpaceX's previous calls. Whoever tells the truth, you can be sure that SpaceX will fight hard. Government contracts represent a significant portion of its operations and the loss of some of them could significantly affect its profitability.