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John Hyten: USAF Has More Work to Do on Russian Engine Replacement

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Gen. John Hyten
Gen. John Hyten

Gen. John Hyten, commander of Air Force Space Command, said the branch still needs to work out the details of a plan to develop a rocket engine to replace the Russian-made RD-180, Defense News reported Friday.

Aaron Mehta writes Hyten pointed out language in the 2015 defense authorization bill that would require the Pentagon to find a domestically-produced engine by fiscal 2019.

“So with that clear intent, assuming appropriations follow, we have a lot of work to do to figure out how to work the future of our launch enterprise,” he told audience at a recent Air Force Association forum.

Hyten also told reporters Friday the branch is considering certifying SpaceX to provide military satellite launch services and could issue a decision before the end of the year.

SpaceX wants to compete with United Launch Alliance in the Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle program.

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