Vaya Space Awarded SBIR Phase I Hybrid Rocket Ejector-Ramjet Airbreathing Hypersonic Missile Study

Vaya Space, a space and defense company, has been selected by AFWERX for a SBIR Phase I contract. This initiative focuses on strengthening A2/AD penetration with hybrid rocket ejector-ramjet (HRER) hypersonic propulsion. The project aims to address key challenges within the Department of the Air Force (DAF).

The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have simplified the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process. This streamlining helps accelerate proposals and expand opportunities for small businesses. Vaya Space begins its project on May 15th, 2024, aiming to enhance U.S. national defense.

Kevin Lowdermilk, CEO of Vaya Space, stated, "We believe that hybrid engine technology can play a critical role in hypersonic missile development, and we are excited to begin Phase 1 with the Air Force."

Lead Propulsion Engineer Kineo Wallace added, "Airbreathing hybrids are a natural progression of our technology, solving challenges related to reliability and consistency. Our advanced techniques and use of additive manufacturing enable a new category of long-range, high-speed propulsion technologies."