L3Harris reports successful test of advanced propulsion system

L3Harris Technologies has tested a potential propulsion solution for the U.S. Army’s Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) Increment 4 program, validating a transition from a solid rocket motor’s initial boost to a ramjet engine designed to carry the payload to target. The company said the system is being developed to deliver precision effects at extended ranges while launching from existing platforms, including the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).

“Rapidly advancing our next-generation propulsion system through ground test and into flight test demonstrates our unique ability to deliver on the Army’s mission requirements and near-term fielding plans,” said Scott Alexander, President, Missile Propulsion, Missile Solutions, L3Harris. “Our propulsion system strikes a balance between capability and affordability by meeting the Army’s requirements for speed, range and lethality.”

“The Direct Connect Transition Test shows the missile’s core propulsion is not a future concept but a validated capability that can be loaded onto current HIMARS and M270 launchers quickly, dramatically shortening the time to warfighter delivery,” said Randy Crites, Vice President, Advanced Programs, Lockheed Martin.

L3Harris said it has invested significant internal funding over the past two years to mature its propulsion technology. The testing took place at the company’s Orange County, Virginia, facility, with representatives from Lockheed Martin and the Army’s Aviation and Missile Center present for the final transition test. The campus spans more than 2,000 acres and includes 256,000 square feet of manufacturing space, as well as a static test facility, an aerothermal propulsion lab and an altitude test site.