L3Harris Technologies has successfully powered Kratos Defense & Security Solutions’ demonstration test of two advanced, Camden-built Large Solid Rocket Motors (LSRMs).
The flight test validated the performance of Kratos’ new Zeus 1 and Zeus 2 LSRMs while achieving all test objectives.
“We are pleased to work with Kratos to provide high-performance LSRMs to support a range of critical defense programs,” said Ross Niebergall, president, Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris. “Recent investments in LSRM manufacturing made the development of the Zeus motors possible at our site in Camden, Arkansas, where we continue to expand our production capabilities as a merchant supplier.”
Zeus 1 and Zeus 2 are first and second stage LSRMs designed for Kratos in response to the Department of Defense’s urgent needs. The affordable motors power launch vehicles for a variety of missions including hypersonic tests, ballistic missile targets and sounding rockets. The two LSRMs produced by L3Harris for Kratos, replace legacy motors in fit and form while offering increased performance, allowing the motors to be used with existing rocket designs and infrastructure.
L3Harris is on contract to deliver nine additional Zeus motors to Kratos in 2025.
L3Harris’ Center of Excellence for Solid Rocket Motor Production in Camden produces more than 100,000 solid rocket motors a year – from those that fit in the palm of a hand to those the size of a long SUV. The Camden site conducts approximately 6,000 hot fire tests annually to support national defense program needs.
