L3Harris Technologies has made significant strides in the realm of additive manufacturing, specifically targeting air-breathing hypersonic propulsion systems. The company has reported a remarkable 90 percent reduction in the production time for key components involved in these advanced systems. This innovation is being rolled out under a contract with the US Department of Defense Manufacturing Technology Program, which is managed through the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane. The initiative is part of a broader effort known as Growing Additive Manufacturing Maturity for Airbreathing Hypersonics.
The focus of this program is to identify and optimize materials, equipment, and processes that facilitate scalable production for hypersonic propulsion systems. By leveraging large-format 3D printing technology, robotics, autonomous machines, and improved workflows, L3Harris aims to create a manufacturing process that diminishes dependency on traditional supply chains and extensive post-processing. Scott Alexander, who serves as the President of Missile Propulsion at L3Harris, emphasized that the innovative approach allows the company to “start with just powdered metal and quickly produce a complete propulsion system.” This methodology combines multiple production steps into a streamlined process, reducing costs and simplifying operations.
In addition to advancements in hypersonics, L3Harris has also been active on several fronts recently. In February, it secured multiple contracts spanning various domains. Notably, the company finalized its largest full-rate production agreement to date for submarine communications equipment. This agreement entails supplying 26 shipsets to General Dynamics Electric Boat for integration into US Navy Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines. The systems developed aim to enhance secure and reliable information sharing during missions, thereby improving onboard connectivity and situational awareness for submarine crews.
Another significant contract awarded to L3Harris is worth $400 million, designated for the production of additional solid rocket booster motors along with Liquid Divert and Attitude Control Systems for the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system. These components play a vital role in propelling and steering THAAD interceptors during high-altitude missile interception operations.
Further expanding its global footprint, L3Harris has entered into a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia that centers on enhancing advanced command-and-control and artificial intelligence capabilities. This partnership aims to foster technological advancements and collaborative efforts in defense systems.
Overall, L3Harris Technologies continues to innovate in additive manufacturing and expand its operational scope, positioning itself as a key player in both domestic and international defense markets.
