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AR Tech designed, tested and manufactured more than 30 multilayer insulation blankets (MLIs) of various shapes and sizes in preparation for the first of two certification missions of the United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket in January 2024, launching from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. They are installed in the upper stage of the rocket and serve to protect from high temperatures and radiation.
“Technical production staff that manufactured these MLI blankets were required to have prestige sewing skills and attention to detail, as there were many variations and sizes of MLIs that were produced for this mission,” according to the project description in its 2024 International Achievement Awards submission.
The Vulcan rocket completed the certification process in March 2025 and will be used by NASA, commercial customers and the Space Force. For its work, AR Tech received a multiyear contract for MLIs. Various configurations will be used on every Vulcan based on the rocket engine’s requirements.
United Launch Alliance also honored the company with one of its Small Business Supplier of the Year awards for the MLIs “as well as many vehicle-unique projects that require their expertise,” a ULA release noted last fall.
