CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — United Launch Alliance hit the century mark with this morning’s launch of the Atlas V carrying the USSF-51 mission for the United States Spaces Force’s Space Systems Command.

It was the company’s 100th national security mission.

Let’s relive liftoff of the United Launch Alliance #AtlasV rocket carrying #USSF51 for the @SpaceForceDOD on ULA’s 100th national security mission! pic.twitter.com/WtUKE6j5W9

— ULA (@ulalaunch) July 30, 2024

“It’s incredibly gratifying to reflect on the steadfast partnership we’ve been honored to share with the U.S. Space Force since the founding of ULA,” said Gary Wentz, ULA vice president of Government and Commercial Programs. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to continue building on this trusted partnership and take very seriously the responsibility of promptly launching essential National Security Space satellite assets to orbit amidst the heightened threat environment our nation is facing in space.”

Liftoff of the Decatur-made rocket was at 5:45 a.m. CDT from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

The mission is also the 58th and final national security launch on Atlas V as ULA transitions to the next generation Vulcan rocket for continued access to space.

“The Atlas family of rockets has played a pivotal role in the advancement of national security and space superiority since the 1950s,” said Tory Bruno, ULA’s president and CEO. “Although today marks the final liftoff of a National Security Space mission aboard an Atlas rocket, we look forward to extending a legacy of outstanding teamwork and collaboration with the U.S. Space Force as we launch future missions for our national security partners aboard the Vulcan rocket.”