Tory Bruno, who led United Launch Alliance for nearly 12 years and guided development of the Vulcan Centaur, is joining Blue Origin to head a new National Security Group, the company announced on Dec. 26. Bruno will focus on national security efforts tied to Blue Origin’s heavy-lift New Glenn rocket, which flew its first two missions in 2025 and achieved a November first-stage landing during a mission that carried NASA’s ESCAPADE probes to Mars. Blue Origin leadership, including CEO Dave Limp and founder Jeff Bezos, publicly welcomed Bruno and emphasized his experience and the company’s national security ambitions.
Tory Bruno Joins Blue Origin to Lead National Security Push for New Glenn
Tory Bruno, former ULA CEO, (pictured above) has joined Blue Origin to ovresee a new national security group. | Credit: NASA/Joel Kowsky
Tory Bruno, the longtime leader of United Launch Alliance (ULA), has joined Blue Origin to head a newly formed National Security Group, the company announced on Dec. 26. Bruno served as ULA's president and CEO since 2014 and brings nearly 12 years of launch-industry leadership to Blue Origin.
"Welcome to Blue Origin, Tory Bruno," Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp wrote on social media. "We share a deep belief in supporting our nation with the best technology we can build. Tory brings unmatched experience, and I’m confident he’ll accelerate our ability to deliver on that mission."
At ULA, Bruno oversaw the retirement of the Delta rocket family and led development of the Vulcan Centaur launch vehicle, which integrates Blue Origin’s BE-4 engines on its first stage. ULA operates as a joint venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
Blue Origin said Bruno will focus on national security programs tied to its heavy-lift New Glenn rocket. The company launched its first two New Glenn vehicles in 2025 and achieved a successful first-stage landing during a November mission that also sent NASA’s twin ESCAPADE probes to Mars. Blue Origin has said it intends to bid for and fly U.S. national security missions alongside commercial and civil government flights.
"We are going to bring important, innovative, and urgently needed capabilities to our Nation," Bruno wrote on social media. "Can’t wait to get started."
Founder Jeff Bezos publicly welcomed Bruno as well: "Welcome, Tory. Gradatim Ferociter!" — Blue Origin’s Latin motto, meaning "Step by step, ferociously." Bruno replied, "Thanks, Jeff. We are going to do important work together."
Why This Matters
Bruno’s move is notable because he helped shepherd Vulcan Centaur—powered by Blue Origin’s BE-4 engines—at ULA, and now joins the engine supplier and rocket maker to lead efforts that could expand Blue Origin’s role in U.S. national security launches. His experience with government procurement, launch integration, and veteran launch systems positions him to accelerate Blue Origin’s competitive posture in the national security market.
What Comes Next
Expect Blue Origin to further define the scope of its National Security Group, announce leadership additions and program milestones, and pursue formal certification and contract opportunities with the U.S. government for New Glenn missions. Bruno’s appointment signals Blue Origin’s intention to be a significant player in both commercial and national security space launch services.
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