Revolution Space wins $20M Air Force contract for doubling satellite thruster performance

The U.S. Air Force announced Monday that it has awarded a $19,975,607 fixed‑price contract to Accion Inc., operating under the name Revolution Space, to develop a next‑generation propulsive system for satellite maneuverability. The Boston‑based firm will design and build a “propulsive adaptor” capable of executing long‑duration orbital maneuvers.

The contract, issued through the Air Force Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., was a sole‑source acquisition. All research, development, testing and production work is slated to be performed at Revolution Space’s facilities in Boston. The multi‑year effort is scheduled to conclude on July 8, 2027.

A leap in electric propulsion

According to the award description, the new system will deliver roughly twice the thrust of today’s Hall‑effect thrusters—the prevailing technology for electric propulsion in low‑Earth orbit—while consuming the same amount of electrical power.

The award marks the latest in a series of investments aimed at maintaining U.S. leadership in space technology. If successful, the propulsive adaptor could set a new benchmark for electric propulsion and influence design standards for both defense and civilian satellite programs worldwide.