L3Harris Technologies is advancing a new generation of missile propulsion systems after validating an air-breathing engine concept in a series of landmark tests.
The company’s rotating detonation engines (RDEs) replace conventional combustion with continuous shockwaves, pushing missiles to greater ranges while using the same amount of fuel.
The system was first run for extended durations to validate core physics and identify optimal operating conditions for the RDE design.
In a second test, the engines were operated at full scale, demonstrating their ability to sustain performance across a representative mission flight profile.
Key components are said to have been produced using additive manufacturing, potentially reducing costs and shortening production timelines.
Both tests were completed within a year under L3Harris’ Advanced Missile Propulsion Technology division.
“These tests helped inform the requirements to increase the operating envelope of future RDE-powered systems,” said division director George Thum. “This test series provided valuable feedback on how we make the system applicable for use in the near future, enabling us to deliver next-generation propulsion capability to the warfighter.”
‘State-of-the-Art’
The company described the RDE as a “state-of-the-art propulsion solution,” noting its ability to deliver high performance across demanding mission profiles.
The program is fully self-funded, with L3Harris also partnering with Purdue University for testing support.
“From solid rocket motors and highly loaded grains to ramjets … we deliver innovative propulsion solutions that help the US and allied partners extend range, increase speed, and field more capable, mission-ready systems,” said Scott Alexander, president of L3Harris Missile Propulsion.
