iRocket To Develop & Test At Renowned US Air Force Base Facility

Innovative Rocket Technologies, commonly known as iRocket, has taken a significant leap forward in its pursuit of revolutionizing space propulsion technology. The New York-based startup, founded in 2018, has recently entered into a groundbreaking agreement with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to jointly develop and test rocket propulsion hardware.

The collaboration between iRocket and AFRL's Rocket Propulsion Division comes in the form of a four-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). This strategic partnership aims to harness the expertise of both entities and utilize AFRL's cutting-edge facilities and equipment to accelerate the development and testing of U.S. rocket engines.

The CRADA will enable iRocket to develop, build, test, and transition U.S. rocket engines at an unprecedented pace.

“AFRL is very supportive of development efforts for rapid access to space to support Air Force and Space Force needs for 100% reusable rockets" - Shawn Phillips, Chief of AFRL's Rocket Propulsion Division

The agreement marks a significant milestone for iRocket, as it provides the startup with a unique opportunity to advance and demonstrate their high-thrust technology. The company has already been making waves in the industry, having secured a contract with the U.S. Space Force in June to demonstrate a reusable rocket engine for small launch vehicles.

As part of the CRADA, iRocket has outlined ambitious plans to conduct propulsion, stage, and potentially grasshopper testing at Test Site 1-56, situated at the prestigious High Thrust Research Facility, located within Edwards Air Force Base in California. 

Credit: iRocket

The facility is renowned for its capabilities and is one of only four stands in the United States capable of handling an incredible 10 million pounds of thrust. The facility has tested programs such as Big Dumb Booster, High Thrust, Space Shuttle Alternative 1969-1971, and Super Hippo 1976-1979.

iRocket’s first milestone for the CRADA is to conduct a 120-180 second engine demo, showcasing 37,000 pounds of sea level thrust, within the next 12 to 14 months" - Asad Malik, CEO of iRocket 

Credit: iRocket

The partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory not only reinforces iRocket's position in the space industry but also underscores the increasing collaboration between private startups and government entities in advancing space exploration and technology development.