Anduril and Blue Origin Team Up for Space Cargo Delivery

Anduril and Blue Origin have partnered to explore efficient methods of transporting cargo from orbit back to Earth for the Pentagon. Consequently this initiative aims to strengthen logistical capabilities for defense and other critical applications.

The Vision for Orbital Cargo Transport

The collaboration focuses on developing innovative solutions for retrieving payloads from space. Specifically the teams will investigate methods technologies and systems to ensure safe reliable and cost-effective delivery.

Key Objectives of the Study

• Assess Current Technologies: Evaluating existing technologies suitable for orbital cargo return.
• Develop Novel Approaches: Creating new methods to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Enhance Reliability: Ensuring dependable and secure delivery of payloads.

1. Reusability and Rocket Reliability

• New Glenn Blue Origin’s heavy-lift orbital rocket is designed with a reusable first stage capable of vertical landings key for reducing launch costs and enabling rapid turnaround. While the initial booster landing attempt in January 2025 fell short the orbital launch was successful.
• This focus on reusability extends Blue Origin’s competitive positioning among national security launch providers.

New Glenn offers a massive payload capacity 45 metric tons to Low Earth Orbit LEO. Moreover its uniquely spacious 7-meter diameter fairing vastly expands payload design flexibility. Additionally substantial ground facilities including a custom-built launch site at Cape Canaveral and advanced manufacturing centers in Florida support its development.New Space Economy

Experience with National Security and Logistics

• Blue Origin secured $2.3 billion in Pentagon contracts through 2029 under the National Security Space Launch program affirming its capability to serve sensitive and technically demanding missions.
• The Blue Ring spacecraft a logistics platform launched during New Glenn’s first flight demonstrated capabilities applicable to in-space transport host and relay functions and potential resupply operations.

Engaging in Rocket Cargo Logistics Planning

• In the Pentagon’s REGAL Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics program Blue Origin received a $1.37M contract. Specifically the company will examine how New Glenn and similar systems could enable point-to-point material transport through space-based delivery.
• Moreover their involvement aligns with broader Department of Defense efforts to reimagine logistics. Specifically the focus includes fast space-enabled transportation to remote or conflict zones.

Anduril’s Contribution

Anduril will contribute its advanced engineering and software capabilities to develop the necessary infrastructure and logistical solutions. Furthermore its expertise in autonomous systems and defense technology will play a key role in the project.