Boeing Explores Sale of Rocket Venture Amidst Space Struggles
Boeing is reportedly considering selling its joint venture rocket launch business, United Launch Alliance (ULA), which it operates alongside Lockheed Martin. This move comes amid a series of setbacks for the aerospace giant, including multiple high-profile aircraft failures and difficulties with its Starliner spacecraft.
The recent ordeal of two astronauts, stranded for months at the International Space Station due to issues with Starliner, has further amplified the company's struggles. The astronauts' eventual return to Earth will be facilitated by a SpaceX rocket, a stark reminder of Boeing's current predicament and the success of its rival.
According to Reuters, Boeing and Lockheed are seeking potential buyers for ULA, with a sale potentially fetching £1.5 billion to £2.2 billion. The news agency suggests that the sale would allow Boeing to focus on its core aerospace and defence operations, while the funds could bolster its other initiatives.
Sierra Space has emerged as a frontrunner in the acquisition race, with negotiations reportedly underway. Such a deal would be a significant win for Sierra, granting the company control over its own launches and eliminating the need to rely on third-party providers for transporting its spacecraft and equipment into space.
The future of Boeing's remaining spaceflight ambitions remains uncertain. The company's space division is reportedly experiencing a significant drop in morale, with employees expressing humiliation at SpaceX's intervention.
âWe have had so many embarrassing episodes lately, weâre under intense scrutiny. This has just amplified the situation tenfold," one employee told the *NY Post*.
âWeâre not fans of SpaceX,â he added. "We often criticise them, and now they're rescuing us."
âItâs a disgrace. I'm ashamed, I'm mortified,â the employee said.
Given the extent of Boeing's recent challenges, it remains unclear what steps the company will take to address its issues and regain its footing. The sale of ULA might represent a significant shift in Boeing's spaceflight strategy, but the company's future trajectory is yet to be determined.
