Space Force pauses Vulcan rocket launches after Florida anomaly

Investigation into sparks seen during recent mission could delay ULA's launch schedule for 2026.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Reports suggest the U.S. Space Force may pause missions on the United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket until an anomaly observed during a February launch from Cape Canaveral is resolved. The investigation into the issue, where sparks were seen coming off the rocket, could take months and potentially delay ULA's planned launch schedule for 2026.

Why it matters

The Vulcan rocket is a critical launch vehicle for the Space Force, with nearly two dozen national security missions assigned to it in the coming years. Any delays in the Vulcan's launch cadence could impact the Space Force's ability to deploy important military and intelligence satellites.

The details

During Vulcan's most recent launch in February, sparks were observed coming off the rocket mid-flight in what ULA later confirmed was an anomaly. While the incident did not hinder the mission, it was similar to a previous issue seen on Vulcan's second flight in 2024. Investigators will now review flight data and imagery to identify the root cause before the next Vulcan mission.

  • The Vulcan rocket launched from Cape Canaveral on February 12, 2026.
  • The anomaly with the Vulcan rocket was reported on February 25, 2026.

The players

United Launch Alliance (ULA)

A joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin that provides launch services, including the Vulcan rocket.

U.S. Space Force

The military service branch responsible for organizing, training, and equipping space forces in order to protect U.S. and allied interests in space.

Col. Eric Zarybnisky

A colonel with the U.S. Space Force who suggested the Pentagon is halting launches aboard the Vulcan rocket until the anomaly issue is resolved.

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What they’re saying

“Until this anomaly is solved we will not be launching ... missions on the Vulcan”

— Col. Eric Zarybnisky, U.S. Space Force (Aviation Week, Breaking Defense)

What’s next

The investigation into the Vulcan rocket anomaly could take months, potentially delaying ULA's planned launch schedule for 2026. The Space Force will work closely with ULA before the next national security mission on the Vulcan.

The takeaway

The pause on Vulcan launches highlights the critical role this rocket plays in the Space Force's national security missions, and the potential impact any issues with the vehicle could have on the military's ability to deploy important satellites and other payloads.