The Pentagon has issued new guidance outlining when U.S. government agencies may convert intercontinental ballistic missiles into space-launch platforms to haul payloads into orbit. On July 5, Deputy Defense Secretary William Lynn signed a directive-type memorandum outlining Pentagon responsibilities and procedures for utilizing excess ballistic missiles for space launch. The document presages an update to the Defense Department's September 2000 policy on military missions to support space activities. "Acquisition of space launch services using converted excess ballistic missile assets shall...
