Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions have announced the formation of a joint venture in the United States, aimed at the development of solid rocket motors for military applications. The new entity, named Prometheus Energetics, will operate from a strategically located 500-acre site adjacent to a US Navy and Army facility in Crane, Indiana.
The partnership sees both companies equally invested in Prometheus Energetics, sharing a 50/50 stake and committing $175 million in capital for its operations. The venture is set to commence production of solid rocket motors by 2027, contingent on the completion of the site’s construction and the successful transfer of key technologies from Rafael.
In a statement about the joint venture, Kratos President Eric DeMarco emphasized the importance of Prometheus in reinforcing the US industrial base, indicating that the initiative will produce tens of thousands of solid rocket motors and casted warheads. These will not only support the United States but also its key allies in the Middle East.
The move comes at a time when the US military is actively pursuing advanced technologies for its hypersonic missiles and launch vehicles. Notably, in June 2024, the US Navy awarded contracts to Anduril and X-Bow for the development of solid rocket motors for the Standard Missile-6. The establishment of Prometheus Energetics is seen as an effort to broaden the US military’s options in solid rocket motors, allowing for a more flexible and diversified selection of solutions.
Kratos, which is recognized for its successful development of solid rocket motors such as Zeus 1— which achieved its first live-fire test in 2023—will bring this expertise to the venture. Meanwhile, Rafael, a prominent Israeli defense contractor known for its innovative systems like the Iron Dome air defense system, will contribute its technological advantages.
Yoav Tourgeman, President of Rafael, referred to the joint venture as a “strategic leap forward,” highlighting that it strengthens the longstanding partnership with the United States. Tourgeman asserted that through Prometheus Energetics, both companies aim to enhance supply chain independence and bolster essential capabilities required to address the evolving challenges to national security.
