On August 12, 2026, in-space transportation provider Impulse Space was awarded a $28 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III contract extension by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC).
The contract modification funds the delivery of two Mira orbital transfer vehicles to support the upcoming VICTUS SALO 2 and VICTUS SALO 3 operational flight demonstrations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
The award expands Impulse Space’s involvement in the Department of Defense’s Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) framework, supplying high-thrust maneuverability for responsive defense payloads.
Spacecraft Architecture and Mobility Specifications
Under the terms of the contract extension, Impulse Space will supply two custom-configured Mira spacecraft to host, deploy, and maneuver government payloads. The high-thrust orbital transfer vehicle utilizes eight 6-lbf Saiph thrusters to deliver high delta-v maneuvers across Low Earth Orbit, Medium Earth Orbit, and Geostationary Orbit.
As detailed in earlier technical milestones for Impulse Space’s upgraded Mira vehicle architecture, the platform incorporates articulated solar arrays for double the payload power generation, reaction wheels for high-accuracy pointing control, and NSA Type 1 cryptographic solutions to protect classified command links during tactical maneuvers.
Program Heritage and Tactically Responsive Space Alignment
The VICTUS SALO series forms part of the Space Systems Command’s broader push to operationalize rapid-response space capabilities. The effort builds upon the flight heritage of earlier responsive space demonstrations, including the VICTUS NOX mission managed by Space Systems Command, which validated short-notice payload integration, rapid launch execution, and immediate on-orbit operations.
By integrating commercial orbital transfer vehicles like Mira into TacRS missions, the U.S. Space Force seeks to establish dynamic space operations capable of repositioning orbital assets, avoiding threats, and conducting high-speed maneuvers on operational timelines.
Mission Integration Schedule and Deployment Roadmap
With the Phase III contract extension finalized, Impulse Space will complete hardware assembly, payload integration, and environmental testing at its manufacturing facilities in Redondo Beach, California. Flight delivery schedules for both Mira vehicles will align with Space Systems Command’s designated launch windows for the VICTUS SALO 2 and VICTUS SALO 3 operational trials.
