The Air Force has awarded dual $49 million contracts to begin “major efforts to develop new or enhanced technologies” leading “into propulsion systems for a prompt global strike capability, a land-based strategic deterrent, and an operational responsive space lift system.” The two contracts went to Aerojet General and ATK Thiokol. Technology to be considered includes solid rocket motors, including ballistic and space boost, post boost propulsion, and tactical motors. Due date is 2014.
RTX, parent of Raytheon, Collins and Pratt & Whitney, is getting out of the space prime business and focusing on its "strengths" as a maker of space sensors, buses, and components, company COO Chris Calio said during an earnings call.