Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) is endeavoring to quickly increase production of the engines that power its Falcon 9 rocket. SpaceX is positive about accomplishing its goal of 13 launches and two test flights this year, President Gwynne Shotwell told Reuters.

Efforts are being made to hire engineers and other workers to help boost production. Among the ones hired for the stint include from sectors such as the automotive industry and the military, said company officials.

The company is expecting to produce at least 180 engines this year. The number is likely to go up to 240 next year and 400 in 2017.

Shotwell told Reuters in an interview late last week that SpaceX is in a dire need of increasing production to put the company in line with the deadline of 13 launches this year. The company did not want to face the same situation that made it fall short of its target last year.

Shotwell said that they are confident to meet these targets from a manufacturing perspective. Shotwell is all set to restudy before the House Armed Service Committee on Tuesday about a drive to enable the US become free of the dependence on a Russian-built engine used for powering one of two rockets used by SpaceX rival United Launch Alliance (ULA).

Shotwell said, “Mr. Musk founded the company to change the whole game in space transportation. He wants to make space transportation very much like an airplane operation. He wants it to be accessible to the public”.

The Air Force is likely to certify SpaceX by June to launch some military and intelligence satellites using its Falcon 9 rockets. ULS -- joint venture of Lockheed Martin Corp and Boeing Co -- is the only company that is currently certified to launch those satellites.