L3Harris wins $250 million from Lockheed Martin for record GMLRS rocket motor order

L3Harris Technologies has won a $250 million follow-on contract from Lockheed Martin to make standard-range propulsion units for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), the company said in a press release dated 12 October. L3Harris describes the order as the highest quantity in the programme’s history.

What the contract covers

The award is for the solid rocket motors that power standard-range GMLRS rockets. L3Harris says it has produced these propulsion units for decades and has doubled its GMLRS motor output in recent years through advanced manufacturing techniques, expanding capacity for the United States and allied partners. It also makes the electronic safe-and-arm device and the proximity sensor for the rocket.

Scott Alexander, president of the company’s Propulsion Systems business, said the follow-on award “demonstrates confidence in L3Harris’ missile propulsion expertise and our ability to deliver at scale”.

A new plant in Arkansas

The work is to be carried out at a new 60,000-square-foot facility in Camden, Arkansas, which L3Harris calls “Arsenal of Freedom” and says is scheduled to open later this year. According to the company, the plant will bring production together under one roof, with automation and robotics designed to streamline each stage of solid rocket motor manufacturing. The release does not give delivery dates or the number of motors.

Part of a wider push on rocket supply

L3Harris describes the award as a follow-on from Lockheed Martin. Lockheed has also signed a separate rocket motor deal for newer missiles, covered in Lockheed Martin and Avio sign deal on solid rocket motors for ER GMLRS and PrSM missiles.

Source: L3Harris press release, L3Harris Awarded Solid Rocket Motor Contract with Record Production.