#USA #Ursa Major #Stratolaunch #Berthoud #Hadley Engines

Overview of the Contract Awarded to Ursa Major

On June 16, 2025, Ursa Major announced that it has secured a lucrative contract worth $32.9 million to provide 16 advanced Hadley H13 engines to Stratolaunch. This partnership is set to enhance the capabilities of the U.S. hypersonic test infrastructure, advancing flight testing and operational readiness in the critical area of high-speed flight. The contract signifies a multi-year collaboration aimed at increasing the cadence of flight tests through 2032, a crucial timeframe for developing hypersonic technology that supports national security.

The Significance of the Hadley H13 Engines

The Hadley H13 engines are not just any engines; they represent a mission-upgraded variant designed for increased reusability. This improvement allows for more engine restarts, subsequently reducing the cost per flight while ensuring that new test objectives are met efficiently. The Hadley H13 engines have been pivotal in several successful Talon-A missions, achieving sustained speeds exceeding Mach 5, and demonstrating their performance under conditions that replicate operational challenges. These attributes make them a leading choice for hypersonic testing ventures.

Dan Jablonsky, the CEO of Ursa Major, emphasized the importance of this contract, stating, "This contract directly supports U.S. hypersonic test infrastructure and the broader imperative to accelerate high-speed flight programs that deliver for national security." His words underline Ursa Major's commitment to executing projects that not only meet operational demands but also contribute significantly to national safety and security by enhancing the capabilities of the United States in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.

Advancements in Hypersonic Technology

Ursa Major's Hadley engines have already proven their effectiveness. The successful Talon-A missions are a testament to their reliability and efficiency, showcasing the engines' capacity for sustained hypersonic flight and effective vehicle recovery operations. This track record of success positions Ursa Major as a key player in the aerospace and defense sectors, specifically in the realm of hypersonic technology.

Moreover, the company operates out of Berthoud, Colorado, and has integrated its additive manufacturing capabilities in Youngstown, Ohio, leveraging advanced production techniques to build systems suitable for various operational domains, including land, air, sea, and space. The innovative approach used by Ursa Major to develop these engines signifies a broader trend in the aerospace industry, where agility and adaptability are paramount.

Conclusion: Impact on Future Test Programs

The award of this contract to Ursa Major not only marks a significant milestone for the company but also reflects a strategic advancement in the U.S. defense apparatus aimed at enhancing hypersonic capabilities. Given the increasing importance of high-speed flight in modern military operations, the contributions made via this partnership with Stratolaunch will likely play a pivotal role in ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of aerospace innovation. As such, the urgent need for effectively tested hypersonic vehicles can be seen as part of a larger ambition to meet the challenges posed by evolving global defense realities.

Future Collaborations

Looking ahead, the continued partnership between Ursa Major and Stratolaunch could open the door to additional projects that may further revolutionize the aerospace sector. As hypersonic technology evolves, players in this industry must adapt and innovate continuously, and Ursa Major seems poised to lead that charge effectively. With their commitment to delivering real capabilities quickly and at a scale suitable for national defense needs, the stage is set for exciting developments in the hypersonic domain well into the coming years.