US receives first rocket engines of $1bn contract with Russia

Posted on 7 Aug 2015 by Jonny Williamson
Orbital ATK’s medium-class space launch vehicle, Antares (image courtesy of Orbital ATK).

Russia has delivered the first two of 60 RD-181 rocket engines to the US’ Orbital Sciences Corporation for its Antares launcher.

According to the Russian rocket manufacturer, Energyia, the first two engines were successfully shipped to the US last month; though estimated dates for subsequent deliveries hasn’t been officially confirmed. Energyia signed a US$1bn contract with Orbital Sciences Corporation at the start of 2015, despite a several Western-imposed sanctions and heated debates in Congress. Senator John…

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