Best Space Launch Insurance Firms in USA
Non-sponsored, Expert Verified and Transparently Ranked Space Launch Insurance Firms in USA
Published: December 27, 2025 | Updated: December 28, 2025 | Verified by: Ted Scheiman & Rob Watts
Executive Summary
We analyzed 5 solutions. Top Recommendation: Broking and Risk Transfer by Aon scored highest due to Established operators and investors requiring sophisticated risk design, competitive placements across launch markets, and experienced claims support for complex launch and in-orbit loss scenarios..
Content Verification
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | #1 Broking and Risk Transfer (Aon) | #2 Risk Consulting, Brokerage, and Claims Advocacy Services (Marsh) | #3 Insurance (AXA XL) | #4 Aviation Insurance Coverage (Global Aerospace) | #5 Space Liability (United States Aviation Insurance Group (USAIG)) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Established operators and investors requiring sophisticated risk design, competitive placements across launch markets, and experienced claims support for complex launch and in-orbit loss scenarios. | US satellite operators, launch providers, and New Space startups needing comprehensive broking, data-driven market access, and single-policy coverage from assembly and testing through pre-launch, launch, early operations, and in-orbit. | Prime contractors, satellite owners, and launch vehicle developers seeking direct underwriting capacity for launch through in-orbit risks, including smallsat constellations, unique missions, launch risk guarantees, and specialized liability protection. | Launch providers and spacecraft manufacturers needing tailored hull and liability programs aligned with mission profiles across pre-launch, launch, decommissioning, and third-party exposures, with a partner experienced in complex space underwriting. | US launch operators prioritizing third‑party liability for FAA licensing, requiring customizable policies for launch, on‑orbit operations, re‑entry, and mission‑specific scenarios backed by aerospace‑specialist underwriters. |
| Coverage Scope | Coverage includes: MAIT (manufacturing, assembly, integration, testing); pre-launch all risks property and transit; launch vehicle flight only; launch and in‑orbit; stand‑alone satellite in‑orbit; third‑party liability; service interruption/loss of revenue; transponder asset; space products liability; astronaut/cosmonaut personal accident. (aon.com) | Insurance for New Space companies covering physical loss/damage across assembly, integration, testing, pre-launch, launch, and in‑orbit phases (signal acquisition, commissioning, 180- and 365‑day periods), plus third‑party liability; often structured as a single continuous policy, supported by global New Space hubs and engineers. (marsh.com) | Pre-launch through in-orbit coverage for spacecraft and launch vehicles: launch (ignition to separation), post-separation (initial operations, deployments, orbit raising, testing), annual in-orbit operations, and launch/in-orbit liability. Also covers transponder users (loss of revenue/extra expense), satellite manufacturers (incentives and warranty payments), launch risk guarantees, and specialized solutions for small satellites and unique missions. (axaxl.com) | Covers full spectrum of aviation risks: aerospace manufacturers; aircraft/engine leasing; airlines; airports and ground handlers; aviation professional services liability; emerging technology; general aviation; grounding liability; light aircraft; space & satellite (hull: pre‑launch/launch/in‑orbit; liability: launch/in‑orbit/decommissioning); unmanned aircraft systems. (global-aero.com) | Liability from launch to return, spanning pre-, during, and post-entry phases. Includes FAA-compliant launch liability, contingent launch liability, spacecraft liability, on-orbit liability, and re-entry liability. Applies to launch service providers and to satellite and space product manufacturers. (usau.com) |
| Expertise in Space Risks | Aon’s International Space Brokers is the only broker dedicated exclusively to space, combining insurance experts and rocket scientists to design and place launch and in‑orbit programs, handle complex claims, and advise on contracts and liabilities. They place 35%+ of global space premium and have 478+ years of combined experience. (aon.com) | Marsh’s Space practice (est. 1977) provides consulting, broking, and claims expertise across pre-launch, launch, and in-orbit risks, via New Space hubs and in-house satellite engineers across 8 global hubs. (marsh.com) Their Space Intelligence database (45+ years of placement data) delivers insurer‑appetite analysis to optimize data‑driven risk transfer for GEO/MEO/LEO satellites and constellations. (marsh.com) | Led by renowned space insurance experts, AXA XL is a leading space insurer offering pre‑launch, launch, post‑separation, in‑orbit, and liability cover, with specializations in small satellites, unique missions, new technologies, and industry‑recognized space insurance data. Partnership with SpaceAble strengthens LEO situational awareness for underwriting and risk management. (axaxl.com) | Dedicated space underwriting team providing bespoke policies for pre‑launch, launch, in‑orbit and decommissioning phases, including hull and liability. Insures a full range of spacecraft and launch vehicles, from GEO satellites to LEO constellations, leveraging 100+ years of aerospace insurance experience and close collaboration with clients’ risk experts. (global-aero.com) | USAIG’s Special Risks Underwriting Team has extensive experience evaluating space exposures, with expert underwriters possessing highly technical aerospace knowledge. They tailor assessments across launch-to-return, including launch liability compliant with FAA licensing, contingent launch, spacecraft, on‑orbit, and re‑entry liabilities. (usau.com) |
| Claims Handling Efficiency | Integrated broking-claims model; account leads manage claims end-to-end, enabling seamless, expedited collections. (aon.com) Aon’s 1, 800-person claims team leverages the new Claims Copilot platform for faster, globally consistent resolution, analytics, and carrier performance tracking. (aon.mediaroom.com) Aon’s space team has collected $3B+ in satellite claims and remits funds to clients in a timely manner. (aon.com) | Leading US claims operation (1, 800+ specialists) with industry‑segmented teams and strong insurer relationships enables efficient resolution of complex claims. (marsh.com) End‑to‑end approach (advocacy, preparation, handling) using proprietary data/benchmarking and Digital Claim Review accelerates resolution. (marsh.com) Secure web portal/database speeds documentation and recovery; incident teams can be on‑site within 48 hours. (marsh.com) | AXA XL emphasizes rapid claims resolution: 1, 200+ claims experts operating globally. (axaxl.com) Cyber incidents are triaged within minutes with a specialist and a same‑day expert team mobilized. (axa.com) Digital FNOL/telematics (Xtract) shortened claim durations and expenses. (axaxl.com) Managed TPA partnerships and scorecards deliver leading response times and outcomes. (axaxl.com) | 24/7 claims reporting with dedicated specialists; process designed to be fast and efficient. (global-aero.com) Simple corporate structure gives direct access to decision-makers, reducing red tape for rapid, responsive handling. (global-aero.com) Recognized for prompt handling of catastrophic, multi-jurisdictional claims. (global-aero.com) oneGlobal model offers a single point of contact for consistent, efficient resolution. (global-aero.com) | Rapid, hands-on claims handling: industry’s largest aviation claims team (10 offices staffed by pilots, A&P mechanics, aviation attorneys), quick onsite response, worldwide reach, and direct management for efficient resolution; after-hours claim reporting available. (usau.com) |
AonCompany Information
Aon is a global professional services firm that provides a range of risk, retirement, and health solutions. The company operates in two key areas of need: Risk Capital and Human Capital, providing expertise across these areas to help clients make better decisions.
Keywords
Description
Aon exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues in over 120 countries provide our clients with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses.
What They Do
Provide expertise across Risk Capital and Human Capital to help clients with their risk and people strategies.
Who They Serve
Clients from various industries needing risk and human capital consultation.
Key Value Propositions
Industries Served
Contact Information
Key Pages
Navigation Links
Summary
Specialist space insurance broking team combining insurance experts and rocket scientists to design, place, and service launch and in-orbit risk programs. Integrated placement and claims expertise expedites complex launch failure and in-orbit claims.
Key Features
- Valuation and analysis of risk exposure
- Custom insurance program design
- Access to a broad range of insurance products and markets
- Industry-specialized risk management solutions
- Analytical tools and data-led strategies
- Advisory services for risk mitigation and transfer
Key Benefits
- Optimized balance of risk transfer and retention financing
- Custom insurance solutions tailored to specific risk profiles
- Access to global insurance markets and capacity
- Expert guidance in navigating complex and evolving risk landscapes
- Data-driven insights and analytics for better decision-making
- Comprehensive risk identification and quantification
Who Is It For
- Organizations of all sizes and industries seeking to manage and transfer risk
- Businesses with complex or unique risk profiles
- Industries including but not limited to: Construction and Infrastructure, Aviation, Energy, Entertainment, Marine, Mining, Power, Rail, Renewables, Space, Financial Institutions, Healthcare, Retail, Technology, Public Sector, and more
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Coverage Scope
Expertise in Space Risks
Claims Handling Efficiency
Risk Consulting, Brokerage, and Claims Advocacy Services
MarshCompany Information
Marsh is a global leader in insurance broking and risk management, bringing global, national, and industry-specific solutions to a wide range of clients.
Keywords
Description
Marsh is a global professional services firm that specializes in insurance brokerage and risk management. The firm helps clients navigate complex risks and embrace their opportunities.
What They Do
Marsh provides insurance brokerage and risk management services to clients across various industries worldwide.
Who They Serve
They serve a wide range of clients including businesses, governments, and organizations across multiple sectors.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Contact Information
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Summary
Brokered risk solutions tailored to space companies, providing pre-launch, space launch, and in-orbit insurance often in a single, continuous policy. Dedicated New Space hubs and in-house satellite engineers support clients end-to-end.
Key Features
- Risk consulting
- Insurance brokerage
- Claims advocacy
- Data-driven risk analysis
- Technology-enabled solutions
- Analytics for risk management
Key Benefits
- Better quantification and management of risk
- Access to global expertise and industry-specific knowledge
- Support in navigating complex risk environments
- Leverage of data, technology, and analytics for informed decision-making
Who Is It For
- Organizations and businesses across a wide range of industries
- Clients seeking to manage, transfer, or mitigate risk
- Companies requiring support with insurance placement and claims management
Services
Our consulting, brokerage, and claims advocacy services leverage data, technology, and analytics to help you better quantify and manage risk. Explore our global expertise below. Please note that service availability varies by location. Contact a Marsh advisor for support in your region.
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Detailed Comparison
Coverage Scope
Expertise in Space Risks
Claims Handling Efficiency
AXA XLCompany Information
AXA XL is a leading provider of P&C global commercial insurance offering insurance and reinsurance to enterprises of every kind and size. AXA XL helps you take your business further.
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Description
AXA XL is the P&C and Specialty division of AXA, providing Re/Insurance to mid-sized and multinational companies, and some high-net-worth individuals.
What They Do
AXA XL provides insurance and reinsurance solutions, risk consulting, and innovative risk management services.
Who They Serve
Mid-sized and multinational companies, as well as high-net-worth individuals.
Key Value Propositions
What Customers Say
"AXA XL demonstrates strong financial stability and service capabilities while investing time to understand us, which are key criteria for us."
— Risk Manager
"They take time to understand our business and needs and generally responsive to those. They do what we need everywhere we need it and do a good job of putting a team behind it."
— Risk Manager
"AXA XL is much better than their peers on each of our carrier choice criteria: global scale, flexibility on how we structure programs, strong technical expertise and ability to execute all types of administrative actions."
— Risk Manager
"AXA XL stands for partnership and continuity, always willing to be a partner and to provide solutions to ensure business continuity."
— Risk Manager
"Their bench is deep, with lots of talented people, that are not just smart, but people you can enjoy spending time with and for some, even call them friends."
— Risk Manager
"AXA XL stands for integrity, financial strength, care about customer, value personal relationship and long-term strategic partner."
— Risk Manager
"AXA XL Claims is one of the most professional, courteous, and skilled teams I work with. Thank you!"
— Broker
"AXA XL Claims professionals are always prompt in their responses and understanding in how a large company manages their claims."
— Risk Manager
"From the first call to AXA XL claims, my experience was as positive and as pleasant as it could possibly be in these circumstances. Thank you!"
— Insured
Target Customers
Industries Served
Contact Information
Key Pages
Navigation Links
Summary
Direct underwriting for launch, post-separation, and in-orbit phases, plus launch and in-orbit liability. Offers seamless pre-launch through launch coverage and specialized solutions for small satellites, unique missions, and launch risk guarantees.
Key Features
- Coverage in more than 200 countries and territories
- Award-winning captive solutions
- Primary and excess casualty insurance
- Flexible construction coverages and risk engineering
- Full suite of cyber insurance solutions
- Environmental insurance expertise
- Excess & Surplus (E&S) solutions for unique risks
- Multinational/global program capabilities
- Professional liability coverage
- Property insurance for commercial assets
- Specialty insurance (aviation, marine, fine art, etc.)
- Structured risk and (re)insurance solutions
- Delegated authority and program business
- Wholesale insurance for complex or non-standard risks
- Customized risk management and consulting
Key Benefits
- Global reach and local expertise
- Comprehensive coverage across a wide range of risks
- Innovative and tailored insurance solutions
- Support for complex and emerging risks
- Strong financial backing as part of AXA Group
- Data-driven insights and leading technology
- Risk consulting and loss prevention services
Who Is It For
- Mid-size companies
- Multinational corporations
- Some high-net-worth individuals
- Brokers and underwriters (via alternative distribution)
- Industry-specific clients (see industries_served)
Resources
Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Coverage Scope
Expertise in Space Risks
Claims Handling Efficiency
Aviation Insurance Coverage
Global AerospaceCompany Information
Global Aerospace is a leading provider of aviation insurance products and services, enabling the future of flight by providing financial protection to aerospace and aviation stakeholders. With a global presence and a team of experienced professionals, the company offers a wide range of insurance solutions to individuals and organizations in the aviation and aerospace industry.
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Description
For more than a century, Global Aerospace has helped aviation and aerospace stakeholders protect their assets and operations, continually innovating to lead the way in our industry.
What They Do
Provide aviation and aerospace insurance solutions
Who They Serve
Aviation and aerospace stakeholders including airlines, manufacturers, pilots, and space agencies.
Key Value Propositions
Target Customers
Industries Served
Contact Information
Navigation Links
Summary
Underwriting solutions spanning space launch insurance, pre-launch, and in-orbit coverage, with both hull and liability options. Insures a complete range of launch vehicles and spacecraft with bespoke policy structures.
Key Features
- Coverage for aerospace manufacturers
- Coverage for aircraft and engine leasing
- Airline insurance
- Airports and ground handlers insurance
- Aviation professional services liability
- Corporate aviation insurance
- Emerging technology insurance (including drones and UAS)
- General aviation insurance
- Grounding liability insurance
- Light aircraft insurance
- Space and satellite insurance
- Unmanned aircraft systems insurance
Key Benefits
- Customized insurance solutions based on unique operational characteristics
- Attentive and prompt claims service
- Coverage for the full spectrum of aviation risks
- Competitive terms and high-quality service
- Expertise from a team focused solely on aviation insurance
- Global reach, insuring risks in over 75 countries
- Financial protection for both traditional and emerging aviation sectors
Who Is It For
- Aerospace manufacturers
- Aircraft and engine lessors
- Airlines
- Airports and ground handlers
- Aviation professional service providers
- Corporate aviation operators
- Emerging technology companies (e.g., drones, UAS)
- General aviation operators
- Operators requiring grounding liability coverage
- Light aircraft owners/operators
- Space and satellite industry participants
- Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operators
Aviation Insurance From an Industry Leader
Commercial and private stakeholders throughout aviation trust Global Aerospace for insurance customized to meet their unique needs and attentive service to ensure claims are processed promptly and thoroughly.
Experts With Unique Aviation Insurance Perspectives
For more than a century, we have helped the aviation industry thrive. Essential to that goal are skilled underwriters and claims professionals with a rare combination of aviation industry experience and insurance expertise. Because aviation insurance is all we do, our team members understand the importance of providing both competitive terms and high-quality service to address stakeholders’ needs. Our rating approach is based on your unique operational characteristics and commitment to safety—not merely industry averages.
What Does Aviation Insurance Cover?
Global Aerospace provides simplified access to aviation insurance products that cover the full spectrum of aviation risks.
- Aerospace Manufacturers
- Aircraft and Engine Leasing
- Airline
- Airports & Ground Handlers
- Aviation Professional Services Liability
- Emerging Technology
- General Aviation
- Grounding Liability
- Light Aircraft
- Space & Satellite
- Unmanned Aircraft Systems
A Pioneer and Leader in Aviation Insurance
Global’s roots in aviation go as deep as the industry itself. Our company was founded a century ago by people committed to helping stakeholders succeed and aviation advance, and we haven’t rested on our early success. Global continues to invest in new and improved ways of providing financial protection to today’s aviators and industry innovators.
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Supporting Resources
Detailed Comparison
Coverage Scope
Expertise in Space Risks
Claims Handling Efficiency
Space Liability
United States Aviation Insurance Group (USAIG)Company Information
Summary
US carrier offering space liability coverage from launch to return, including launch liability compliant with FAA licensing, contingent launch liability, spacecraft liability, and re-entry liability. Special Risks underwriters bring technical aerospace expertise.
Detailed Comparison
Coverage Scope
Expertise in Space Risks
Claims Handling Efficiency
Our Ranking Methodology
How we rank these offerings
We ranked these Space Launch Insurance Firms in USA based on three key factors: Coverage Scope (40% weight), Claims Handling Efficiency (35% weight), and Expertise in Space Risks (25% weight). Broking and Risk Transfer scored highest because of their comprehensive coverage options, integrated claims handling model, and specialized expertise, including a dedicated team of space professionals.
Ranking Criteria Weights:
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the typical costs and pricing models for space launch insurance in the USA?
- The cost of space launch insurance is influenced by factors such as the type of mission, spacecraft design, and launch vehicle specifications. Pricing models often include comprehensive packages that cover pre-launch, launch, and in-orbit phases, as offered by firms providing seamless coverage like Broking and Risk Transfer specialists. The growing prevalence of small satellites has led insurers to develop bespoke pricing models, addressing the diverse needs of unique missions and small satellite launches, a focus area for companies like the Insurance firm offering direct underwriting.
- What are the key selection criteria and considerations for choosing a space launch insurance firm in the USA?
- Key selection criteria include the firm's capacity to provide an integrated risk management approach, supported by technical expertise such as in-house satellite engineers, as seen in Risk Consulting, Brokerage, and Claims Advocacy Services. Decision-makers should also consider the firm's track record in handling complex claims and its ability to offer specialized solutions for unique missions. Additionally, firms that provide compliance with FAA licensing and extensive liability coverage, such as the Space Liability provider, offer essential benefits.
- What industry standards and compliance requirements must be considered in the space launch insurance sector?
- Compliance with FAA licensing is critical, particularly for launch liability and ensuring all operations are legally sound, as highlighted by the Space Liability carrier. Industry standards also dictate the need for comprehensive risk assessments and adherence to safety protocols during launches and missions. Insurance providers must ensure that their liability coverage, including contingent and re-entry liabilities, meet both national and international regulations, safeguarding their clients' interests.
- What are the common implementation challenges faced in space launch insurance, and what solutions exist?
- Common challenges include managing the complexity of launch and in-orbit claims and ensuring seamless coverage transitions from pre-launch to in-orbit phases. Solutions involve integrating placement and claims expertise, which expedites resolution processes and minimizes financial risks, a service prominently offered by Broking and Risk Transfer firms. Additionally, leveraging technical aerospace expertise, as done by Space Liability's Special Risks underwriters, aids in addressing unforeseen challenges effectively.
- How do space launch insurance firms ensure ROI and value delivery to their clients?
- Firms ensure ROI by providing tailored risk solutions that minimize potential financial setbacks through comprehensive insurance coverage across mission phases. Specialized solutions for small satellites and unique missions offered by Insurance firms can lead to cost savings, while tailored policies improve mission success rates. Moreover, firms like Risk Consulting, Brokerage, and Claims Advocacy Services deliver substantial value by advocating robust risk management and efficient claims processing, enhancing client confidence and operational security.
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