A new air-launch system may be under development by Boeing and Thiokol Propulsion. AirLaunch would lift approximately 3,000 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO), with launch-on-demand features at competitive prices. Its could also increase U.S. military tactical responsiveness and expand Boeing civil and commercial launch capabilities. The U.S. Air Force might utilize it as its proposed Space Maneuver Vehicle (SMV).

AirLaunch could be used to support the deployment and replenishment of LEO communications satellites, hypersonic research, remote sensing and technology development. AirLaunch could also complement the Boeing launch vehicle family, which includes the Delta family of expendable launch vehicles, Sea Launch, and NASA's Space Shuttle, as well as programs that will develop from the joint NASA/Boeing X-37 program.

While the AirLaunch system is being developed primarily as a near-term, low-cost, launch-on-demand system for the military, its additional capabilities would advance the Boeing's overall launch vehicle strategy.

The Air Launch system consists of two basic configurations. 

The first would support the military and would be capable of placing an SMV into LEO. The second configuration would be available for civil, commercial and military applications using a Conventional Payload Module.

Boeing defined its AirLaunch system during a two-phase study conducted during 1999, and keeping development and recurring costs to a minimum was a priority.

As a strategic corporate partner with Boeing, Thiokol Propulsion would provide the AirLaunch solid rocket motors in a multi-stage configuration. Currently, Thiokol has existing solid rocket motors suitable for the first two stages and is working on a design that is well matched for the AirLaunch third stage.

Nore: SMV is a small, unpiloted reusable spacecraft designed to support a variety of military space missions ranging from satellite deployment to terrestrial and on-orbit support.

Reference:

http://www.spacedaily.com/news/airlaunch-00a.html

Goto Air Launch-Missile Type Rockets

Goto Launch Vehicles Home Page

Goto Space Projects and Info Home Page