Why Is The U.S. Space Industry So Obsessed With Vertical Integration?

SpaceX launchpad in Boca Chica, Texas

SpaceX operates its own launchpad at its Starbase complex in Boca Chica, Texas.

Credit: SpaceX
Apart from passing the Karman line and reaching outer space, there are few boasts in the U.S. space sector prouder than “my company is vertically integrated.” Vertical integration—the practice of developing and building systems in-house instead of buying from a supplier—is rare in other...
Garrett Reim

Based in the Seattle area, Garrett covers the space sector and advanced technologies that are shaping the future of aerospace and defense, including space startups, advanced air mobility and artificial intelligence.

Why Is The U.S. Space Industry So Obsessed With Vertical Integration? is available to both Aviation Week & Space Technology and AWIN subscribers.

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