This revolutionary propulsion system combines air-breathing and rocket engine technologies in a single engine for use on future reusable, single-stage-to-orbit launch vehicles. This type of engine allows the vehicle to take off horizontally, like an airplane, for greater safety and reliability and a dramatic reduction in cost of access to space. The Strutjet RBCC is a candidate as the primary propulsion for a third-generation space shuttle engine.

"Aerojet is proud to be working closely with MSFC as it moves forward on reusable launch vehicle technology. We believe our technology will provide the capability for early demonstration of a vehicle powered by an RBCC engine," said Bob Harris, vice president, Strategic and Space Propulsion.

Since 1996, Aerojet has successfully progressed in building the Strutjet RBCC, which is part of MSFC's Advanced Reusable Technologies Project. This contract extension will refine the Strutjet RBCC into a highly integrated engine/vehicle concept, and a new emphasis will be placed on the development of flight-type cooled components, including the use of advanced materials and fabrication processes. These flight-type components will be exposed to engine thermal environments in a Component Development Rig at Aerojet's Sacramento site.

The Strutjet RBCC is an advanced, hydrogen-fueled engine that combines the best elements of air-breathing and rocket propulsion. It operates initially as an air-augmented rocket as it accelerates to low supersonic speeds, transitions to ramjet operation by turning off the rockets, then converts to a scramjet as flight speed increases. The rockets are turned back on as atmospheric oxygen diminishes, then the engine transitions to a high-expansion rocket for final ascent.

During the initial program phase, the Strutjet RBCC demonstrated superior performance and a robust operating capability in wind tunnel tests over the entire flight operating range. Also, Aerojet's patented cascade fuel injector efficiency and rocket durability and flexibility have been proven in the large number of tests conducted.

Aerojet, a leading proponent of RBCC propulsion, has demonstrated excellent performance using both hydrogen and hydrocarbon fuels, providing evidence of the flexibility of this engine. Aided by Aerojet technology advances on this program, NASA placed recent emphasis on continuing the advancement of this promising concept through flight.

Aerojet, a leader in propulsion, electronics and weapon systems, and fine chemicals, is a segment of GenCorp, a technology-driven company with strong positions in polymer products, automotive, and aerospace and defense industries.