Air Force Space Command is asking industry to provide information on a potential new booster propulsion and launch system for Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle-class spacelifts. In light of ongoing conflicts with Russia, USAF is seeking a domestic alternative to the RD-180 engine to ensure continued access to space. According to the request for information notice, the new domestic solution may be a near carbon copy with “similar performance characteristics to currently used engines,” or it can consist of different configurations (such as a multiple engine configuration) that provide similar functionality. Use of completely different launch vehicles also is a possibility. “The Air Force is particularly interested in exploiting any available synergies with commercial space launch systems” and making sure the new engine also has both military and non-military utility, the solicitation said. Jessica Rye, a United Launch Alliance spokeswoman, said via email Thursday the company is looking forward to being a part of the new engine solution. “The US government also recently made clear that it supports investment in a domestic engine and we look forward to participating in the development of that public-private partnership,” she said. Responses are due by Sept. 19.
B-52 Engine, Radar Upgrades Hit New Milestones
Sept. 15, 2026
The Air Force’s program to re-engine the B-52H Stratofortress has moved from its technology maturation and risk reduction phase to engineering and manufacturing development, marking a new milestone in the sweeping overhaul of the Cold War-era bomber, a top official said Sept. 15.
