The HLV is envisioned as a low-cost launch system comprising both reusable and expendable vehicle elements that can be combined to deploy payloads between 2,000 and 60,000 pounds to various orbits.

The Andrews HLV team, with experience gained from past NASA and DARPA launch-system contracts, intends to define a flexible modular hybrid launch architecture, the company said in a statement. The HLV will be capable of launching payloads within 48 hours to a wide range of orbits at a fraction of the cost of current launch systems.

Under the contract, Andrews will analyze various HLV architectures, evaluate supporting infrastructure and identify critical technologies, processes and systems, and identify a demonstration vehicle concept.

"The current effort will be critical to fielding an operationally responsive launch system," said Michael L. Wolfert, Andrews Space's director of military and homeland security programs. "Reusable elements with rapid-turnaround times are enabling parameters in meeting our customer's goals for cost and responsiveness."

Wolfert is a retired Air Force colonel.

The contract, valued at $2.6 million, includes a 14 month base period, with an optional six-month extension.

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