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L3Harris Doubles GMLRS Rocket Motor Production
L3Harris Technologies has announced that its business unit Aerojet Rocketdyne has successfully doubled its monthly production of motors for Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets, which are crucial for Ukraine’s defense efforts. This increase comes amid a global surge in demand as military conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East highlight the need for enhanced rocket and missile capabilities.
Soaring Global Demand
The worldwide demand for rocket motors is escalating as militaries adapt to a new warfighting doctrine emphasizing "affordable mass." This approach focuses on increasing firepower volume to better prepare for future conflicts. The GMLRS rockets, which can reach distances of approximately 45 miles (72 km), have proven effective in Ukraine, prompting interest from new customers.
Ross Niebergall, president of Aerojet Rocketdyne, stated, “GMLRS has unbounded demand. In the most recent quarter, we've doubled our average monthly production from 2023.” Since acquiring Aerojet in December 2022, L3Harris has ramped up capital spending in the rocket motor division by 84%, investing $25 million to enhance productivity across a network of over 300 suppliers.
Future Production Goals
While specific GMLRS motor production figures were not disclosed, Lockheed Martin, the primary contractor for GMLRS, is ramping up its production from 10,000 units in 2024 to 14,000 units in 2025. Aerojet's enhanced facilities in Huntsville, Alabama, now feature advanced manufacturing technologies, positioning them to meet the growing demands for rocket motors effectively.
