VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. – Jun. 16, 2026 – Space Launch Complex-6 (SLC-6), one of the nation's most historic launch facilities, entered a new era of national defense capability following the scheduled demolition of its legacy structures on June 16 at 11:00 a.m. PT.
Following the U.S. Space Force’s 2025 outgrant of SLC-6 to SpaceX, the demolition marks the next step in evolving the site to advance national space launch capabilities, increase launch capacity, and improve resiliency for future vehicles.
"Space Launch Complex-6 represents six decades of American innovation and our unwavering commitment to securing space superiority," said Col. James T. Horne III, commander of Space Launch Delta 30. "By modernizing this historic footprint in partnership with our defense industrial base, we are building directly upon the foundation of our pioneers to deliver the resilient, combat-ready infrastructure required to dominate an increasingly contested domain."
Construction of SLC-6 began in 1966 to support the Air Force's Manned Orbiting Laboratory program, an ambitious effort to place military astronauts into polar orbit. Although that program was canceled before launch operations began, the facility was subsequently redesigned for the Space Shuttle program and eventually supported Athena and Delta IV launch operations.
After decades of adaptation, SLC-6 became home to critical national security launches, including Delta IV Heavy missions supporting the National Reconnaissance Office and the Missile Defense Agency. The final Delta IV launch from the West Coast occurred September 24, 2022, closing that chapter of the complex's history.
Today, as part of the outgrant agreement with SpaceX, legacy infrastructure—including the Mobile Service Tower (MST), Fixed Umbilical Tower (FUT), and Tail Service Masts (TSMs)—was cleared to make way for modernized systems.
Driven by a growing demand for launch services, this modernization effort supports broader U.S. Space Force objectives to assure reliable access to space from the West Coast.
"To maintain our competitive edge in a dynamic space environment, we must accelerate the delivery of next-generation capabilities," Horne said. "We are not just updating infrastructure; we are leveraging industry capabilities to field a more resilient space enterprise, ensuring the United States is prepared to protect our national interests and meet future challenges for decades to come."
Ultimately, the ongoing transformation of SLC-6 honors the legacy of one of America's most storied launch complexes by ensuring it remains at the forefront of the modern space era.
For additional information, contact Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs at SLD30.PA.Workflow@spaceforce.mil.