#United States #Denver #BAE Systems #Ursa Major #APKWS

New Extended Range Rocket Motor by Ursa Major

In a significant advancement in aerospace technology, Ursa Major, in partnership with BAE Systems, has successfully completed a series of static fire tests for its new extended range solid rocket motor. This innovative motor is designed specifically to enhance the functionality of the APKWS® (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System) laser-guidance kit, which is crucial for improving precision in military operations.

Enhanced Capabilities and Performance

The next-generation rocket motor utilizes Ursa Major's highly innovative Highly Loaded Grain (HLG) propellant technology. Notably, this technology allows for an increase in range and overall performance without necessitating an increase in the size of the motor itself. The ability to extend the range of such systems is pivotal in modern warfare, where precision and efficiency can lead to significant advantages on the battlefield.

Dan Jablonsky, the CEO of Ursa Major, highlighted the importance of this development, stating, "Our collaboration with BAE Systems to extend the range of the APKWS guided rocket demonstrates how Ursa Major is accelerating SRM (Solid Rocket Motor) capability through innovation and speed." This statement underscores the commitment of both companies to respond swiftly to the operational needs of modern military forces.

Rapid Development and Future Flight Tests

The successful static fire tests mark a key milestone in Ursa Major’s path towards a planned flight test demonstration scheduled for the fall of 2025. These tests validate that Ursa Major is well-equipped to rapidly develop, test, and deliver propulsion systems that align with the urgent demands of warfighters. The experimental outcomes from these tests pave the way for future innovations and enhancements in missile propulsion systems.

The design architecture of Ursa Major's HLG technology endorses longer-range missile capabilities while preserving the original form factor. This feature is particularly valuable for military applications that necessitate reusability and efficiency in manufacturing across various missile systems. Furthermore, the integration with Ursa Major's proprietary Lynx Manufacturing System—an advanced, additive manufacturing production line—ensures that the process is both scalable and expedited, overcoming traditional manufacturing bottlenecks.

Revolutionizing Military Precision

The APKWS guidance kit, developed by BAE Systems, transforms unguided 2.75-inch rockets into sophisticated laser-guided munitions capable of executing precision strikes. This technology redefines the conventional understanding of precision munitions, allowing for accurate targeting that significantly minimizes collateral damage. Such a feature is crucial when critical lethality is needed with utmost certainty in high-stakes situations. The guidance kits are accessible to all U.S. armed forces and allied nations through Foreign Military Sales, reinforcing international military cooperation.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Rocket Technology

By amalgamating cutting-edge hardware solutions with rapid production capabilities and mission-agnostic manufacturing processes, Ursa Major is reimagining the landscape of solid rocket motors. This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of the U.S. military but also opens the door to enhancing defense capabilities among allied nations.

As Ursa Major continues to innovate, the recent static fire tests highlight a substantial step toward fulfilling the urgent requirements of military operations. The successful collaboration between Ursa Major and BAE Systems showcases the potential for aerospace technology to evolve swiftly to meet the challenges of modern warfare. It is an exciting time for advancements in rocket propulsion that promise to shape the future of defense technology.