The Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) here released a formal solicitation June 2, seeking proposals for shared public-private investments in rocket propulsion system (RPS) 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 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.

Concurrently, the Air Force will continue to competitively award launch services contracts to certified providers who demonstrate the capability to design, produce, qualify, and deliver launch systems and provide the mission assurance support required to deliver national security space satellites to orbit.

"The end goal of our strategy is to have two or more domestic, commercially viable launch providers that also meet national security space requirements," said Lt. Gen. Samuel A. Greaves, the Air Force's program executive officer for space and the commander of SMC.

"This is essential in order to solidify U.S. assured access to space, transition the (Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle) program away from strategic foreign reliance, and support the U.S. launch industry's commercial viability in the global market."