Wed, Mar 28, 2007
Team "Built Around NASA's Requirements"
Aero-News has learned some very
heavy hitters will vie for a contract to produce the upper stage
for the Ares I crew launch vehicle, NASA's first new human-rated
launch vehicle since the space shuttle. The space agency issued its
request for proposal Friday for the Ares I launch vehicle upper
stage element, which will transport the Orion crew exploration
vehicle to low Earth orbit.
On Wednesday, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems announced it
will submit an RFP for the upper stage, and that the company will
lead a supplier team comprised of:
- Hamilton Sundstrand, a subsidiary of United Technologies
Corp.
- Moog Inc. Northrop Grumman Corporation Orion Propulsion
Inc.
- SUMMA Technology Inc.
- Chickasaw Nation Industries
- United Space Alliance and the
- United Launch Alliance
Boeing says each supplier brings specific capabilities tailored
to NASA's stated Ares I upper stage needs. Located in or near
Huntsville, AL and New Orleans, Boeing's team will focus on
providing responsive support to the NASA Marshall Space Flight
Center customer.
"We will bring innovative manufacturing approaches and the best
elements of Boeing and our teammates to bear on this critical NASA
Constellation Program element," said Jim Chilton, Boeing's vice
president of Exploration Launch Systems. "Our lean practices,
proven in commercial airplanes and defense programs, will help us
provide a low cost, safe and reliable upper stage."
"Our team is composed of industry leaders with experience in
their Ares I upper stage roles. We don't want to add risk to NASA's
program," Chilton added. "Our team was built around NASA's
requirements."
The upper stage proposals are due to Marshall Space Flight
Center no later than 1300 CST April 13, 2007. NASA is expected to
award the Ares I upper stage production contract in late
August.
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