Applications Analysis

AED provides engineering and technical assistance in support of the vehicle systems analysis and design activities of the AFRL Propulsion Directorate Applications and Assessments Branch. Vehicles include Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM's), Endo- and Exo-atmospheric interceptors, space based interceptors, anti-satellite systems, air-launched missiles, expendable launch vehicles, reusable launch vehicles, and orbital transfer vehicles. These vehicles employ liquid rockets, solid rockets, hybrid rockets, electric propulsion systems, rocket based combined cycle (RBCC) engines, and other advanced propulsion systems. The AED analysis also provides support for IHPRPT by providing a basis for establishing and demonstrating performance improvements.

Integrated High Payoff Rocket Propulsion Technology (IHPRPT) Initiative Support

AED supports a broad spectrum of analysis, trade studies, program reviews and documentation as well as cost and program analysis and evaluations in support of the IHPRPT initiative and the associated planning and program activities. AED personnel also provide support to IHPRPT within the context of the specific task assignments such as developing historical presentations of prior Lab projects, i.e., Support to Ballistic Missile and Large Space Booster Programs and Support to Air Launched Missile Propulsion Programs.

Non-toxic Storable Propellant Investigation

AED supports the Air Force Research Laboratory in leading development of advanced solid and liquid rocket technology. Currently all of the storable propellants being used in the United States are considered toxic which causes complexity in operational use, which in turn increases operational costs. It is appropriate to investigate the use of safe, non-carcinogenic (non-toxic), low cost storable propellants for a variety of applications including a 'pop up' stage for the Military Spaceplane (MSP), the Common Aerospace Vehicle (CAV), conversions of engines using other storable propellants, interceptor and inspection vehicle propulsion, and spacecraft propulsion.