February 20, 2025

L3Harris expands solid rocket motor production with ‘Factories of the Future’ in Arkansas

By Defence Industry Europe

L3Harris Technologies has commenced operations at a new ammonium perchlorate (AP) processing facility, enhancing efficiency at its Camden, Arkansas site. This facility is part of the company’s ongoing site modernisation efforts aimed at boosting productivity and supporting vital U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) programs. — Photo: L3Harris Technologies.

L3Harris Technologies has begun construction on four new solid rocket motor production facilities at its Camden site in Arkansas. The expansion is part of a $215.6 million cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense to boost domestic rocket propulsion manufacturing capacity.

The new facilities will feature state-of-the-art equipment and modern production processes to meet the growing demand for tactical and strategic missile capabilities. A key development includes a 60,000-square-foot facility designed to centralise production, significantly reducing the distance motors travel during manufacturing.

Ken Bedingfield, President of Aerojet Rocketdyne at L3Harris, described the expansion as a vital investment in national security. He emphasised that the increased production capacity will support the U.S. and its allies in maintaining a strong defence posture amid global challenges.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders welcomed the project, highlighting the aerospace sector’s importance to the state’s economy. She praised Camden’s role as a national leader in aerospace and defence manufacturing.

U.S. Senator John Boozman noted that the investment would strengthen both the local economy and national security. Representative Bruce Westerman echoed this sentiment, stating that Camden’s defence manufacturing expansion would secure jobs and reinforce the U.S.’s position in global aerospace leadership.

The U.S. Department of Defense views the project as crucial to addressing solid rocket motor production needs. Anthony Di Stasio, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Resilience, stressed that expanding and modernising these facilities will accelerate production and replenish U.S. stockpiles.

Beyond Arkansas, L3Harris is also expanding solid rocket motor facilities in Virginia and Alabama under the cooperative agreement. The company has already acquired new tooling and equipment to support increased production across multiple sites.

This development marks a significant step in L3Harris’ commitment to enhancing the U.S. defence industry. The modernised facilities will play a key role in ensuring the country remains at the forefront of missile propulsion technology.

Source: L3Harris Technologies (press release).