Which external rocket utilizes the BE-4 engine, replacing older Russian-made RD-180 engines?
Answer
Vulcan Centaur
The BE-4 engine, manufactured in Huntsville, is not only the primary propulsion for Blue Origin’s own New Glenn first stage but also serves a critical role in the broader American launch industry as a replacement engine. Specifically, it is the main engine used by United Launch Alliance (ULA) for their Vulcan Centaur rocket. The integration of the BE-4 into Vulcan Centaur allows ULA to phase out reliance on older Russian-made RD-180 engines. The successful Flight Readiness Firing of the Vulcan Centaur using two BE-4s in June 2023 confirmed this transition was proceeding according to the major industrial milestone set by the delivery of the first engines in 2022.
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