# AFRL Awards Ursa Major Engine Option

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) awarded Ursa Major a **$10.9 million contract option** to mature the Block 1 variant of its Draper storable liquid rocket engine toward qualification. Qualification activity is targeted to begin in December 2027, extending federal investment in hypersonic propulsion; the announcement does not identify an open solicitation or procurement contact.

- The option supports engine maturation ahead of the planned qualification phase, with potential follow-on needs in testing and production.
- Defense contractors supporting propulsion development, qualification, or testing can assess whether their capabilities align with potential follow-on work.
- No immediate bid action is identified; the signal points to a developing opportunity area rather than an open procurement.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 12, 2026

### Government Entities
- Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
- United States Air Force (USAF)

### Vendors
- Ursa Major (awardee)

### Sources
- [Air Force Awards Ursa Major $11 Million To Further Mature Hypersonic Engine - Defense Daily](https://www.defensedaily.com/air-force-awards-ursa-major-11-million-to-further-mature-hypersonic-engine/air-force) - Defense Daily