Aerojet Rocketdyne Powers Launch of ULA’s Delta IV Heavy to Orbit

Rhea-AI Summary

Aerojet Rocketdyne's engines powered the successful launch of a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket, carrying a classified NRO payload on April 26, 2021. CEO Eileen P. Drake highlighted the company's 100% mission success for nearly two decades, crediting their RS-68 and RL10 engines for reliability. The RS-68A engine generates 705,000 pounds of thrust and is recognized as the world’s most powerful hydrogen-fueled engine. The launch underscores Aerojet Rocketdyne's role in national security and its ongoing contributions to aerospace defense.

Positive

• Successful launch of Delta IV Heavy rocket enhances Aerojet Rocketdyne's reputation in propulsion systems.
• RS-68 and RL10 engines have achieved 100% mission success over nearly 20 years, indicating reliability.
• The RS-68A engine is the most powerful hydrogen-fueled engine, showcasing advanced technology.

Negative

• None.

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., April 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Engines supplied by Aerojet Rocketdyne provided the lifting power for today’s successful launch of a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying a classified U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) NROL-82 payload.

“When it comes to launching high-value national security payloads, America puts its trust in our propulsion systems,” said Eileen P. Drake, Aerojet Rocketdyne CEO and president. “Our reliable, flight-proven RS-68 and RL10 engines have supported ULA’s Delta IV Heavy missions since the rocket’s first flight in 2004 and have continued with 100% mission success for nearly two decades.”

The Delta IV Heavy features three core stages in a side-by-side configuration, each powered by a single Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-68A engine generating 705,000 pounds of thrust at liftoff. The RS-68A, developed specifically for the Delta IV, is the world’s most powerful hydrogen-fueled engine.

The vehicle’s second stage is powered by a single RL10B-2 hydrogen-fueled engine generating 24,750 pounds of thrust. Variants of the RL10 have been flying since the 1960s on various rockets, with well over 500 having flown to date.

The Delta IV Heavy’s propulsion systems also feature pressurant tanks built by Aerojet Rocketdyne’s ARDÉ subsidiary.

About Aerojet Rocketdyne: Aerojet Rocketdyne, a subsidiary of Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AJRD), is a world-recognized aerospace and defense leader that provides propulsion systems and energetics to the space, missile defense and strategic systems, and tactical systems areas, in support of domestic and international customers. For more information, visit www.Rocket.com and www.AerojetRocketdyne.com. Follow Aerojet Rocketdyne and CEO Eileen Drake on Twitter at @AerojetRdyne and @DrakeEileen.

Media Contacts:
Todd McConnell, Aerojet Rocketdyne, 561-302-8358
todd.mcconnell@rocket.com

Mary Engola, Aerojet Rocketdyne, 571-289-1371
mary.engola@rocket.com

FAQ

What significant event did Aerojet Rocketdyne announce on April 26, 2021?

Aerojet Rocketdyne announced the successful launch of a Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying a classified NRO payload.

Which engines powered the Delta IV Heavy rocket during the launch?

The Delta IV Heavy rocket was powered by Aerojet Rocketdyne's RS-68 and RL10 engines.

How long has Aerojet Rocketdyne's RS-68 and RL10 engines been in service?

The RS-68 and RL10 engines have been in service with the Delta IV Heavy for nearly two decades, achieving 100% success.

What is the thrust capability of the RS-68A engine used in the Delta IV Heavy?

The RS-68A engine generates 705,000 pounds of thrust at liftoff.

What role does Aerojet Rocketdyne play in national security?

Aerojet Rocketdyne provides propulsion systems that support high-value national security payloads.