Aerojet Rocketdyne and United Launch Alliance (ULA) have announced that they have signed a contract for a joint investment to complete technical feasibility analysis, detailed program plans, technology integration, affordable production processes and plans, mission assurance and related criteria -- all leading to a competitive cost estimate, schedule and risk management plan for the AR1 engine as well as current propulsion products including RS-68, RL-10 and solid rocket motors.

This activity is in support of ULA as it prepares to execute Phase 2 of the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) program.

Aerojet Rocketdyne will leverage decades of experience in advanced liquid rocket engine design, test, manufacture and demonstrated mission assurance toward continuing to provide a variety of propulsion products to ULA.

"We clearly understand the requirements of our customer, ULA, and are focused on continuing our long-term partnership as the U.S. propulsion supplier of choice," said Paul Meyer, Aerojet Rocketdyne senior vice president, Advanced Programs and Business Development.

"With the integration of Aerojet and Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne, we believe we have an unparalleled level of engineering talent, tools, technology, program management, advanced manufacturing capabilities and demonstrated performance to continue to deliver the most reliable propulsion products available today and into the future."