L3Harris marks major milestone with successful hot-fire test of next-generation interceptor

L3Harris Technologies has completed a hot-fire test of its stage-two advanced large solid rocket motor for the Missile Defense Agency’s Next Generation Interceptor, an effort the company is pursuing as part of the Lockheed Martin team supporting U.S. homeland missile defense.

The motor ignited and ran for the full duration in a simulated high-altitude, vacuum environment, validating design integrity and yielding data on performance characteristics ahead of more advanced testing planned later this year.

“NGI is critical to the security of the United States and will serve as a cornerstone of our homeland missile defense once deployed,” said Scott Alexander, President, Propulsion Systems, Missile Solutions, L3Harris. “This successful hot-fire test demonstrates L3Harris’ commitment to delivering dependable, high-performance propulsion systems, and we will continue to execute to support NGI’s first flight test.”

L3Harris serves as the primary provider of propulsion and control systems for NGI, responsible for both stage-one and stage-two advanced large solid rocket motors, as well as the Attitude Control System and the Divert and Attitude Control System, which enable precise maneuvering and engagement.

The company produces ACS and DACS components in California and Virginia, and manufactures advanced large solid rocket motors in Alabama and Arkansas.