The European Commission (EC) cleared the merger of the government launch operations of Lockheed Martin Corp. and Boeing Co. into the United Launch Alliance joint venture.

According to an Aug. 9 statement issued by the EC, “the proposed transaction will not significantly impede effective competition in the European Union.” The statement noted the alliance intends to serve the U.S. government market for launch services and “does not have a direct impact” on European customers.

“In its investigation, the Commission sought and considered the views of major relevant players in the European space industry,” the agency said. “The Commission will continue to monitor market developments and any further consolidation of the activities of the parties involved in this concentration. Furthermore, it will continue…through the relevant policies and instruments at its disposal to [ensure] the competitiveness of this key industry in Europe.”

Boeing and Lockheed Martin announced the joint venture in May.