Orbital ATK Contributes to National Security Launch
October 8, 2015 | By Business Wire News
DULLES, Va.
Orbital ATK, Inc. (NYSE: OA), a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies, supported today’s successful launch of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The rocket launched a classified satellite, designated NROL-55, for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office in support of a national defense mission.
“Orbital ATK-produced structures and components on the ULA Atlas V launch vehicle contributed to another successful launch today,” said Scott Lehr, President of Orbital ATK’s Flight Systems Group. “Our products play a vital role in delivering on mission commitments critical to national security.”
Using advanced fiber placement manufacturing and automated inspection techniques, Orbital ATK produced the 10-foot diameter composite heat shield on the ULA Atlas V rocket, which provides essential protection for the first stage of the launch vehicle from engine exhaust temperatures in excess of 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The large composite structure was fabricated at Orbital ATK’s Iuka, Mississippi, facility. This is the 58th Atlas V launch using Orbital ATK-built composite structures.
This flight marked the 23rd successful flight of the Orbital ATK retro motors. Eight of these solid motors provided thrust for separation of the spent first stage. The ULA Atlas V retrorocket is built at Orbital ATK’s Elkton, Maryland, facility.
About Orbital ATK
Orbital ATK is a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies. The company designs, builds and delivers space, defense and aviation systems for customers around the world, both as a prime contractor and merchant supplier. Its main products include launch vehicles and related propulsion systems; missile products, subsystems and defense electronics; precision weapons, armament systems and ammunition; satellites and associated space components and services; and advanced aerospace structures. Headquartered in Dulles, Virginia, Orbital ATK employs more than 12,000 people in 18 states across the U.S. and in several international locations. For more information, visit www.orbitalatk.com.
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Orbital ATK
Media Contact:
Bryan Warren, 801-775-1233
Sr. Communications Manager
Orbital ATK Aerospace Structures
bryan.warren@orbitalatk.com
or
Investor Contact:
Barron Beneski, 703-406-5528
Public and Investor Relations
barron.beneski@orbitalatk.com
