Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Tory Bruno resigned as United Launch Alliance’s president and CEO on December 22, 2025, with the company saying he left “to pursue another opportunity.” ULA did not give a more specific reason. John Elbon took over as interim CEO, and Mark Peller became ULA’s permanent president and CEO on August 17, 2026. Bruno later became president of National Security at Blue Origin.
What happened to Tory Bruno at ULA?
ULA’s board chairs announced Bruno’s resignation on December 22, 2025, after nearly 12 years leading the company. In their statement, Robert Lightfoot and Kay Sears said he had resigned “to pursue another opportunity.” The company named John Elbon interim CEO, effective immediately.
ULA described the change as a resignation, not a firing. Ars Technica characterized the departure as unexpected at the time, while noting that the board’s statement offered no explanation beyond the “another opportunity” wording. Bruno said in a public post quoted by Ars Technica: “It has been a great privilege to lead ULA through its transformation and to bring Vulcan into service.” He added, “My work here is now complete and I will be cheering ULA on.”
Why did Bruno leave ULA?
The reason ULA gave was that Bruno resigned “to pursue another opportunity.” The company did not identify the opportunity or explain why he chose to leave in its December 22, 2025 announcement. Speculation about contracts, competition, company performance, or internal disagreements should not be treated as an established explanation.
#1 Best Overall
- BEGINNER MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The Estes ULA Vulcan rocket model kit allows ages 10+ to display or launch a 1:100-scale model of United Launch Alliance’s next-generation heavy-lift rocket. It includes pre-bult rocket, recovery parachute, display stand, and instructions. It requires Estes rocket engines, starters, recovery wadding, launch pad system, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries (sold separately).
- SOARS UP TO 300 FT.: The ULA Vulcan model rocket faithfully captures the next generation of heavy-lift rocket design with projected altitude of 300 ft. (92 m) using an E12-4 Estes rocket engine (sold separately). It is compatible with a D12-3 rocket engine.
- READY TO FLY: Our beginner rocket kit comes decorated and ready to launch. Then pair it with an Estes Porta-Pad E Launch Pad and E Launch Controller (sold separately).
- SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets and rocket launch accessories are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
- WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits and displays designed for an unforgettable aerospace experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.
Bruno’s subsequent role provides context: by August 2026, Blue Origin’s official leadership announcement identified him as president of National Security. That later appointment does not establish that ULA disclosed his destination when it announced his resignation.
Who replaced Tory Bruno as ULA CEO?
ULA’s leadership transition had an interim stage followed by a permanent appointment.
Rank #2
- READY TO LAUNCH: No assembly required - simply attach an engine (C5-3 recommended) blast off, reaching heights of up to 600 feet! The Estes Space Shuttle is the perfect model rocket for beginners.
- ICONIC DESIGN: This 1:200 scale model faithfully replicates the famous NASA space shuttle and stands at 10.9 inches tall. This iconic workhorse of the American space program soars like the real thing with detachable boosters and gliding orbiter!
- EXPAND YOUR FLEET: Proudly exhibit alongside other iconic Estes 1:200 model rockets such as the Saturn V and SLS models, building your own mini space history museum! Display stand included.
- AGES 10 & UP: NASA’s space shuttle fleet inspired generations, and the Estes Space Shuttle aims to do the same! From the captivating scale replica to the safe and easy flight experience, every element fuels the fire of curiosity and ignites a passion for space in enthusiasts of all ages.
- MODEL ONLY: This listing contains only the space shuttle replica model. For the optimal experience, be sure to purchase Estes C5-3 Engines, recovery wadding, and a launch pad. Enjoy space exploration from the comfort of home!
| Stage | Leader | Timing and role |
|---|---|---|
| Departure | Tory Bruno | Resigned December 22, 2025, after nearly 12 years leading ULA, according to the company’s announcement. |
| Interim leadership | John Elbon | Named interim CEO effective immediately on December 22, 2025; ULA said he would retire at the end of 2026 after a 45-year career. |
| Permanent leadership | Mark Peller | Named president and CEO effective immediately on August 17, 2026. |
John Elbon’s interim tenure
Lightfoot said the board had “the greatest confidence in John to continue strengthening ULA’s momentum while the board proceeds with finding the next leader of ULA.” Elbon’s interim appointment was not the final succession: ULA later announced his planned retirement at the end of 2026.
Mark Peller’s appointment
ULA announced on August 17, 2026, that Mark Peller would become president and CEO, effective immediately. The company’s announcement says Peller had been chief operating officer, oversaw Atlas and Vulcan operations, and led Vulcan’s development from its inception through entry into service and certification for U.S. government missions. Lightfoot said, “We see a strong future with continued growth for ULA and have tremendous confidence in Mark’s ability to lead this company.”
Rank #3
- BEGINNER MODEL-ROCKET LAUNCH SET: The Tandem-X rocket-model launch set offers adults and kids ages 10+ hours of fun during the holidays as they complete and launch our Amazon and Crossfire ISX rocket models. This set includes the easy-to-assemble Amazon model parts, the Crossfire ISX model parts, parachutes, and the launch pad system. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
- 2 SOARING ALTITUDE HEIGHTS: Our Tandem X set offers a high-performing power duo with our giant 30-inch Amazon model (600-foot projected altitude with a C6-5 rocket engine) and our streamlined 15.6-inch Crossfire ISX model (1,150-foot projected altitude with a C6-7 rocket engine). Other compatible Estes model-rocket engines for Amazon model: B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, C5-3, and C6-3. Other compatible engines for Crossfire ISX: A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, and C6-5. All engines sold separately.
- READY TO ASSEMBLE: Our beginner model-rocket launch set comes with 2 build options. The precolored Amazon model features plastic fins and self-stick graphics and can be built in an hour. The Crossfire ISX model comes with laser-cut wood fins, self-stick decals, and aerodynamic parts. Pair the rockets with the included Porta Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller for a hands-on educational activity or a unique Christmas gift for a budding scientist or a space aficionado.
- SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets and rocket launch accessories are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
- WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits and displays designed for an unforgettable aerospace experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.
How long had Bruno led ULA?
ULA announced Bruno as president and CEO on August 12, 2014, succeeding Michael Gass. The company said he joined from Lockheed Martin, where he had led Strategic and Missile Defense Systems. The 2014 announcement marks the beginning of his tenure; at his departure, ULA described it as nearly 12 years.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
