An Atlas 5 ULA (United Launch Alliance) rocket carrying a satellite for the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program is launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Photo: Reuters
Washington Times: U.S. Air Force blasted for defying Congress over Russian rocket ban
Top lawmakers are angrily accusing the Air Force of slow-walking a congressional mandate to stop using Russian rocket engines for spy satellite launches up through 2019, a move driven by Capitol Hill outrage over the Kremlin’s actions in Ukraine.
Sens. James M. Inhofe, Oklahoma Republican, and Bill Nelson, Florida Democrat, are frustrated that the Air Force has spent less than half of the $220 million fiscal year 2015 funds that Congress has set aside for the replacement engine program.
“Given the urgency of the situation and clear guidance from Congress, I am concerned at the lack of action exhibited by DOD and the Air Force,” the senators, the top men on the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote in a March 10 letter to Defense Secretary Ashton Carter.
More News On U.S. Plans To Cut Its Reliance On Russian Rocket Engines
Senators blast slow Pentagon work to replace Russian rocket motor -- Reuters
US to Scrap Delta IV Launch Vehicle in Favor of Russian-Made Rocket -- Sputnik
U.S. moving ahead on bid to end reliance on Russian rocket engines -- Reuters
SpaceX Sees U.S. Air Force Certification Of Falcon 9 By Midsummer -- Aviation Week
SpaceX says boosting output, on track for 13 rocket launches this year -- Reuters
Exclusive: U.S. Air Force eyes 28 launches, shared investment for next rockets -- Today Online
Factbox: U.S. Air Force maps out plan to replace Russian rocket motor -- Reuters
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