Today the Space and Missile Systems Center released a formal solicitation seeking proposals for shared public-private investments in rocket propulsion system prototypes.
This solicitation is part of a comprehensive Air Force plan to transition off the Russian supplied RD-180 propulsion system used on the Atlas V rocket by investing in industry launch solutions with the ultimate goal to competitively procure launch services in a robust domestic launch market.
The Air Force will award a portfolio of investments on a rolling basis in up to four of industry’s Rocket Propulsion System (RPS) solutions. These investments, which will last approximately 12-18 months, will build the foundation for awarding separate investments in industry’s launch system solutions and secure launch service commitments from invested companies.
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