United Launch Alliance (ULA) has marked a pivotal achievement in its efforts to resume flights of the Vulcan rocket by successfully conducting a static fire test of the Graphite Epoxy Motor (GEM) 63XL Solid Rocket Booster (SRB) on April 15, 2026. This test is part of a broader investigation into an anomaly that occurred during the USSF-87 mission on February 12, 2026, where one of the Vulcan’s SRBs experienced a nozzle issue.
A ULA spokesperson confirmed that the recent test aimed to validate nozzle design enhancements and advanced propellant technology intended for future solid rocket motors across ULA’s portfolio. The data collected from this test, along with findings from the ongoing investigation, will be instrumental in validating analytical models and facilitating the Vulcan’s return to flight.
Investigation into Anomaly
During the USSF-87 mission, one of the four SRBs attached to the Vulcan booster encountered a nozzle malfunction, leading to asymmetric thrust and an unintended roll of the rocket. Gary Wentz, ULA’s Vice President of Government and Commercial Programs, noted that while the BE-4 engines and avionics system were able to compensate for the roll, the incident did reduce overall performance. Despite this challenge, both the Vulcan booster and the Centaur upper stage successfully delivered the mission payload to its intended geosynchronous orbit.
Thorough Review Process
In response to the nozzle failure, ULA is conducting a comprehensive review of technical data, imagery, and debris collection. The spokesperson indicated that the pieces of the SRB nozzle fell into deep water, making recovery unlikely. ULA is committed to implementing any necessary corrective actions before the next Vulcan launch.
Future Launch Plans
While the timeline for the Vulcan’s return to flight is still under assessment, Wentz suggested that Amazon is likely to be the customer for this mission. ULA has recently completed the installation of the first Vulcan booster in its new Vertical Integration Facility – Amazon (VIF-A) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This facility will allow ULA to stack Vulcan rockets alongside Atlas 5 rockets, enhancing operational efficiency.
Amazon has ordered 38 Vulcan rockets to deploy its broadband internet satellites, in addition to nine Atlas 5 rockets. The upcoming launch of the Leo Atlas 07 mission is scheduled for no earlier than May 22, 2026, marking a significant step in Amazon’s satellite deployment strategy.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
