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Solid Rocket Motors

ONE YEAR LATER: A LOOK AT PERFORMANCE PROGRESS

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Modernizing for the Future

Missile takes off in the sky

In 2023, Aerojet Rocketdyne, prior to being acquired by L3Harris, entered into a $215.6M Cooperative Agreement with the Department of Defense to increase production of GMLRS, Stinger and Javelin. Credit: U.S. Department of Defense

In 2023, Aerojet Rocketdyne, prior to being acquired by L3Harris, entered into a $215.6 million Cooperative Agreement with the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Office of Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Prioritization (MCEIP) to expand and modernize AR’s facilities in Camden, Huntsville and Orange County, Virginia, where the company manufactures complex rocket propulsion systems. 

Under the Cooperative Agreement, the company is building additional modernized facilities, purchasing advanced equipment, and automating manufacturing processes to support increased production demand focused on Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), Javelin, and Stinger missiles. 

L3Harris is implementing digital transformation infrastructure and processes that align the company with DoD’s Digital Modernization Strategy to afford the Joint Force a competitive advantage in the modern battlespace.

Evolving Threats Require Proven Propulsion

Aerojet’s Jet-fuel Assisted Take Off technology propelled an overloaded aircraft into the air

Aerojet’s Jet-fuel Assisted Take Off (JATO) technology propelled an overloaded aircraft into the air throughout WWII by providing additional thrust in the form of small rockets. This JATO take-off, an ERCO Ercoupe fitted with a JATO GALCIT booster, performed at March Field, Calif., on Aug. 23, 1941.

The men and women of L3Harris have produced solid rocket motors for decades, supporting defense systems that have protected our warfighters, our nation and our allies. 

L3Harris' legacy producing solid rocket motors began with the Jet Assisted Take Off (JATO) motor, which provided extra boosting power for U.S. military planes during World War II.

During the 1950s and 1960s, L3Harris pioneered the development of solid- and liquid-fueled propulsion technology for U.S. missile and space programs. 

From supporting America’s earliest solid-fueled strategic missiles, including the Minuteman I and Polaris, and providing propulsion for every U.S. Air Force Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) ICBM ever fielded, to powering tactical, air defense and missile defense systems protecting our nation and allies today, L3Harris has a strong legacy of delivering proven propulsion.

The L3Harris Difference - Delivering on Aerojet Rocketdyne

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ADVANCING TECHNOLOGY FOR NEXT GENERATION MISSIONS

Aerojet Rocketdyne eSR-73 Motor Test Drone

The eSR73 advanced large solid rocket motor was successfully hot fired at the company’s Camden site

L3Harris propulsion has powered our nation’s defense for decades, and we are leveraging that expertise to provide innovative, reliable and affordable propulsion to power next generation systems. 

Our solid rocket motors incorporate lightweight graphite composite cases, advanced nozzles and high-energy, long-life propellants tailored to your mission.

Innovative Partnerships

Through innovative collaborations, including with NIOA in Australia and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division, we’re taking action to maximize solid rocket motor production. 

Information graphic describing how solid rocket motors work

Featured News

L3Harris to Provide Propulsion for Hypersonic Defense System

Press release | 09. 26. 2024

L3Harris to Provide Propulsion for Hypersonic Defense System

L3Harris Technologies will provide two key propulsion systems to Northrop Grumman to support the Missile Defense Agency’s Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) program, a defensive weapon intended to defeat hypersonic glide vehicles.

L3Harris to Provide Propulsion for Hypersonic Defense System

Press release | 09. 26. 2024

L3Harris to Provide Propulsion for Hypersonic Defense System

L3Harris, the Trusted Disruptor in advanced hypersonic propulsion with 40 years of experience, stands ready to power operational hypersonic systems now.

Editorial | 09. 16. 2024

The Propulsion Technology is Ready to Power Operational Hypersonic Systems Now

Employees maneuver a piece of hardware

Press release | 08. 13. 2024

L3Harris Marks Artemis III and IV Jettison Solid Rocket Motor Milestones

Dave (left) and Bill at an L3Harris Technologies solid rocket motor factory in Camden, Arkansas.

Editorial | 08. 06. 2024

For L3Harris’ Camden Team, Supporting U.S. Air Defense is More Than a Job

PAC-3 missile launches at night

Editorial | 07. 01. 2024

Proven Propulsion: The Science of Solid Rocket Motors

Solid Rocket Motors Infographic

Resources

  • Solid Rocket Motors Data Sheet

    Solid Rocket Motors Data Sheet

  • How Solid Rocket Motors Work Inforgraphic

    How Solid Rocket Motors Work Infographic

  • Solid Rocket Motors Infographic

    Solid Rocket Motors Infographic

  • The L3Harris Difference: Delivering on Solid Rocket Motors

    The L3Harris Difference: Delivering on Solid Rocket Motors