RTX and Ursa Major advance long-range rocket technology for US Army

RTX and Ursa Major advance long-range rocket technology for US Army
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jan 03, 2025

Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, in collaboration with Ursa Major, has announced the successful missile flight test of their advanced long-range solid rocket motor developed for the U.S. Army. Leveraging their expertise in digital engineering, the companies have accelerated the design and development of a capability that promises to redefine precision-guided munitions.

"These long-range solid rocket motors will allow the U.S. Army and allies to strike farther and faster than anything our adversaries have in their arsenals," said Tom Laliberty, president of Land and Air Defense Systems at Raytheon. "This long-range rocket motor technology fills the essential role of providing affordable precision fires, while increasing range, safety, and magazine depth."

The partnership integrates innovative, cost-effective component technologies to deliver next-generation smart munitions for the U.S. Army. These systems promise to be significantly more affordable while enhancing operational capabilities.

Ursa Major has adopted advanced additive manufacturing techniques to achieve unprecedented timelines in motor development and testing. "The Ursa Major team has utilized additive manufacturing to complete motor development, manufacturing, and testing in unprecedented timelines, resulting in nearly 300 static test fires this year," said Ursa Major CEO Dan Jablonsky. "The innovative manufacturing techniques we employ are yielding agile solid rocket motor solutions with the design flexibility needed to expand the capabilities of the U.S. military. Ursa Major is poised to scale the production of higher-performing solid rocket motors at the pace and volume the country requires and at a price the country can afford."

The collaboration positions Raytheon to incorporate Ursa Major's propulsion technology as a cornerstone for delivering affordable, extended-range solutions. The next program phase will focus on manufacturing advancements, with further flight tests planned for 2025 and qualification targeted for 2026.

RTX Ventures, through its 2023 investment in Ursa Major, has been instrumental in supporting the development of new rocket motor technologies to address critical national security needs. This partnership underscores Raytheon and Ursa Major's commitment to equipping the U.S. Army with advanced, cost-efficient precision-guided munitions.