
United Launch Alliance (ULA) ordered 20 Russian-developed RD-180s for use in civil and commercial missions with annual deliveries beginning in 2017, according to a company statement issued last month.The company said it is moving “smartly” with engine partners Blue Origin and backup Aerojet Rocketdyne [AJRD], but added this development program is difficult and takes years to complete. ULA said this bridge contract for 20 RD-180s will allow it to provide reliable and affordable launch services for civil and commercial customers…