The United Launch Alliance (ULA) plans to upgrade its Centaur V upper stage to support long-duration space missions. The upgraded Centaur V will be capable of remaining in orbit for days or longer, making it a valuable asset for mobility and counterspace operations.
ULA CEO Tory Bruno envisions the Centaur V as an “in-space mobility platform,” which would enable the system to loiter in orbit and respond to threats. This concept is part of ULA’s plan to stay competitive with SpaceX and address changing threat environments in space.
Bruno believes that a mobile satellite or spacecraft capable of maneuvering through space without fuel constraints is essential for the US Space Force’s strategy to defend against aggression from China and Russia. He stated that resiliency alone is not enough, and mobility needs to be part of the equation.
The Centaur V upgrades will be achieved through regular annual modifications, validated on flights of ULA’s Vulcan rocket. The company has an incremental plan to extend the life and capability of the system, with the ultimate goal of achieving a 12-hour or longer orbital stay.
This upgrade is crucial for ULA to expand its portfolio and remain competitive in the space industry. With the increasing need for mobile satellites and spacecraft that can be refueled in orbit, ULA’s Centaur V upgrades will play a vital role in addressing this challenge.
Source: https://www.defensenews.com/space/2024/12/13/ula-eyes-annual-mods-to-turn-rocket-stage-into-space-interceptor