L3Harris has successfully hot-fired the second-stage motor for the US’ Next Generation Interceptor.
L3Harris has successfully hot-fired the second-stage motor for the US’ Next Generation Interceptor (NGI), marking another step toward flight testing of the homeland missile defense weapon.
The company conducted the full-duration burn of its advanced large solid rocket motor as part of the Lockheed Martin-led NGI program for the Missile Defense Agency. Engineers tested the motor in a simulated high-altitude, vacuum environment to collect performance data ahead of more advanced evaluation later this year.
The test was designed to validate the motor's structural integrity and performance under conditions representative of the upper atmosphere.
L3Harris said the motor ignited and completed its planned burn, providing data that engineers will use to assess the system before the next phase of testing.
The company is the NGI program's primary propulsion and control systems provider. It is developing the interceptor's stage-one and stage-two solid rocket motors, along with its Attitude Control System and Divert and Attitude Control System, which provide the maneuvering needed during an engagement.
NGI Moves Forward
NGI is being developed as the next interceptor for the Ground-based Midcourse Defense system, which protects the US homeland against long-range ballistic missile threats.
In August, Lockheed Martin completed a burst test of the NGI’s second-stage motor case, bringing the US missile defense program closer to its critical design review. During the test, engineers placed a reinforced water-filled vessel inside the carbon-fiber motor case and pressurized it beyond expected launch conditions.
Earlier, in June, Lockheed Martin opened Missile Assembly Building 5 in Courtland, Alabama. The purpose-built facility is designed to produce NGI and uses digital manufacturing tools, smart processes, and digital-twin technology intended to streamline production and reduce integration risks.
