The US will consider the expediency of further use of Russia's RD-180 rocket engines, given the recent developments in Ukraine, according to the US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel. He was speaking during congressional hearings.

The United States needs RD-180 to launch its Atlas V boosters, which place in orbit satellites, including satellites for military purposes, under government contracts. Congressmen have long since voiced concern about what they see as the United States' excessive dependence on Russia's RD-180 engines.

The situation around Crimea has prompted them to again raise the issue of the need to explore more options on domestic engine manufacturing.

The Deputy USAF Undersecretary Eric Fanning told reporters earlier this week that the United States has enough RD-180s to support Atlas V launches well into 2016.

Fanning admitted that the USAF is monitoring the current bilateral situation that might impact the US' supply of the RD-180, which is used for critical national security space launches, to protect the engine deliveries to the United States.

The RD-180 engine is manufactured by NPO Energomash in Khimki, near Moscow, and is adapted for use in the United States by the RD Amross Joint Venture. According to RD Amross President and CEO Bill Parsons, the current contract for the delivery of RD-180 rocket engines expires in late 2018.

Source: Voice of Russia