AFA Awards VICTUS NOX the John R. Alison Award 

Dave Machuga

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md., Sept. 16, 2024 – The Air & Space Forces Association presented the VICTUS NOX team led by Millennium Space Systems, Firefly Aerospace, and Space Systems Command with the John R. Alison Award at the 2024 Air, Space & Cyber Conference in recognition for the most outstanding contribution by industrial leadership to national defense.  

The award was jointly presented by Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, Gen. Michael Guetlein, AFA Chair Brig. Gen. Bernie Skoch, USAF (Ret), AFA President & CEO Lt. Gen. Burt Field, USAF (Ret.), and Gen. Kevin Chilton, USAF (Ret.). Dave Machuga accepted the award on behalf of Millennium Space Systems, Israel Figueroa accepted on behalf of Firefly Aerospace, and Lt. Col. Mackenzie Birchenough on behalf of Space Systems Command.

The VICTUS NOX team successfully executed a mission that redefined military satellite launch and maneuver operations. Their work established a new standard for tactically responsive space, demonstrating a rapid-response capability to adversary threats.  

In just one year, Millennium Space Systems designed and built a satellite while Firefly Aerospace developed the Alpha rocket. Within 57 hours of activation, the team transported the spacecraft to the launch site and launched it within 27 hours of the order, completing initialization 11 hours ahead of schedule. The team’s success in on-orbit maneuvers further demonstrated their agility and precision. 

“VICTUS NOX exemplifies what is possible when government and industry collaborate to achieve a shared goal,” Field said. “The mission sets a benchmark for rapid space operations and ability to respond swiftly to any threat.”   

AFA is honored to present its highest award in industrial leadership to the VICTUS NOX team, represented by Millennium Space Systems, Firefly Aerospace, and the Space Systems Command Space Safari Office. 

Congratulations to the VICTUS NOX team! 

About AFA  

The Air & Space Forces Association is an independent, non-profit 501(c)3 association dedicated to advocating for investment and support for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, and for supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their Families. Founded in 1946, AFA is the single largest entity of its kind focused on air and space power. With more than 120,000 members and 200 chapters spread around the world, our mission is to promote dominant U.S. Air and Space Forces as the foundation of a strong National Defense; to honor and support Airmen, Guardians, and their Families; and to remember and respect the enduring heritage of the Air and Space Forces.