SpaceX Sues LockMart and Boeing Over EELV Venture
FTC Seeks More Info on Proposed Lockheed-Boeing Satellite Venture, AP
“Lockheed Martin Corp. and the Boeing Co. said Monday the Federal Trade Commission has asked for more information in its antitrust review of a proposed joint satellite-launch company.”
“1. This is an action by Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (“SpaceX”) against the Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin Corporation for violations of antitrust, unfair competition and racketeering laws. Boeing and Lockheed Martin have engaged in an unlawful conspiracy to eliminate competition in, and utlimately to monopolize, the government space launch business and prevent SpaceX and other potential new entrants from competing in that business.”
Boeing, Lockheed Martin Continue Work Toward Launch Alliance Approval
“The Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin Corporation announced today that they have received a Second Request for information from the Federal Trade Commission relating to their filing pursuant to the Hart-Scott-Rodino Anti-Trust Act regarding the formation of the United Launch Alliance, LLC (ULA).”
So Much for Competition, NASA Watch
Editor’s note: Wasn’t at least part of whole idea in having TWO companies providing EELVs to foster some competition – and therefore cost savings for the prime customer (U.S. government) who also paid a hefty portion of what it cost to develop both companies’ rockets?SpaceX sues Boeing, Lockheed over launch venture, Reuters
“SpaceX, based in El Segundo, Calif., asked the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California to block the joint venture and award SpaceX unspecified damages. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is conducting an antitrust review of the United Launch Alliance, and a SpaceX spokesman said a decision was expected as early as next week. Last month Boeing and Lockheed refiled their application with the FTC.”
