In a pivotal development for the space industry, Innovative Rocket Technologies Inc. (iRocket) has announced the appointment of Paul Stein, the former Chief Technology Officer of Rolls-Royce, to its Board of Directors. With his extensive expertise in aerospace, energy, and nuclear technologies, Mr. Stein is poised to offer invaluable guidance to iRocket as it strives to revolutionize the launch industry.
As the former Director General for Science and Technology of the UK Ministry of Defence and a current member of the UK Prime Minister’s Council for Science and Technology, Mr. Stein brings a wealth of experience in technical oversight and engineering discipline, making him an ideal addition to the iRocket board.
In his new capacity, Mr. Stein will play a crucial role in steering iRocket towards its objective of developing the next-generation fully reusable Shockwave launch vehicle and exploring opportunities in the UK space program. Asad Malik, the founder and CEO of iRocket, has expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Mr. Stein, highlighting the fresh perspective and depth of experience that he brings to the table.
Mr. Stein’s involvement with iRocket is just one aspect of his impressive portfolio. In addition to his role as the CEO of Floral Energy, a U.S.-U.K. start-up energy company, he also serves as an advisor to a U.S. fusion company and is actively involved in shaping the business strategy of a major aerospace corporation. Furthermore, his position as a visiting Professor at Cranfield University underscores his commitment to sharing knowledge and expertise in the field of aerospace and defense.
With his previous oversight of technology strategy and investment for Rolls-Royce technologies, Mr. Stein is well-versed in driving innovation in the industry. His endorsement of iRocket’s revolutionary engine and launch technologies as a transformative force for both civilian and defense customers further solidifies the company’s position as a game-changer in the space launch arena.
Following its $1.8M TACFI contract with the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC), iRocket has recently announced an $18M cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) with The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) West. This partnership will provide iRocket with essential resources, expertise, and site facilities to conduct propulsion, stage, and grasshopper testing at the High Thrust Research Facility at Edwards Air Force Base, positioning the company at the forefront of cutting-edge rocket engine development.
Through its cooperative agreement with Edwards Air Force Base, iRocket is poised to conduct a scale-up test of its reusable rocket engine and advance the development of the Shockwave launch vehicle. With plans to demonstrate 37,000 pounds of thrust using Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and methane later this year, iRocket has already completed the development of its avionics controller and secured its first patent for its rocket engine innovations.
As iRocket continues to make strides in the space launch industry, the addition of Mr. Stein to its Board of Directors represents a significant step towards achieving its vision of revolutionizing the cost of access to space. With his expertise and leadership, iRocket is well-positioned to shape the future of space exploration and technology.