L3Harris taps new PAC-3 propulsion supplier to bolster global solid-rocket motor supply chain

L3Harris Technologies has issued a purchase order to Poland’s Wojskowe Zaklady Elektroniczne S.A. (WZE) to produce Attitude Control Motors as a certified supplier for the U.S. Army’s Patriot PAC-3 missile, advancing in-country missile component production for Poland’s Wisla air defense program in collaboration with Lockheed Martin.

“L3Harris is committed to increasing capacity for critical munitions that protect our country and our allies,” said Scott Alexander, President, Missile Propulsion, Missile Solutions, L3Harris. “This important milestone with WZE demonstrates key progress in diversifying our missile propulsion supply base while ensuring our global allies are equipped with critical defense technology.”

The order follows the installation of specialized equipment at a new WZE facility in Zielonka, Poland, and U.S.-based training at L3Harris’ solid rocket motor campus in Camden, Arkansas. WZE has completed a Production Readiness Review, Manufacturing Readiness Review and Production Line Verification, enabling the start of low-rate initial production in the near future.

The PAC-3 is a mobile, high-velocity interceptor with long-range, medium to high-altitude, all-weather capabilities that uses hit-to-kill technology to defeat threats including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft. Each interceptor incorporates 180 egg-sized Attitude Control Motors that fire to fine-tune flight and enable body-to-body impact.

L3Harris has supplied propulsion for the Patriot family of missiles since inception and powers every PAC-3 variant currently in production.