Ursa Major, in collaboration with BAE Systems, has completed a series of successful static fires for a new extended range variant of the solid rocket motor used for the APKWS® laser-guidance kit. This next-generation rocket motor incorporates Ursa Major’s Highly Loaded Grain propellant technology, delivering enhanced range and performance without increasing the motor’s size.
The milestone marks significant progress toward a flight test demonstration planned for fall 2025, underscoring Ursa Major’s ability to rapidly develop, test, and deliver propulsion systems that meet urgent warfighter needs.
“Our collaboration with BAE Systems to extend the range of the APKWS guided rocket demonstrates how Ursa Major is accelerating SRM capability through innovation and speed,” said Dan Jablonsky, CEO of Ursa Major. “These successful tests validate our approach and set the stage for a flight test this fall and our ramp to provide critical SRM production capacity.”
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Ursa Major’s HLG technology enables longer-range missile capabilities while maintaining the original form factor. This flexible design architecture supports reuse of manufacturing systems across multiple missile systems and integrates with Ursa Major‘s Lynx Manufacturing System, a software-enabled, additive manufacturing production line that delivers scalability and speed without the bottlenecks of legacy industrial processes.
BAE Systems’ APKWS guidance kit transforms unguided 2.75-inch rockets into smart laser-guided rockets for precision strikes. The guidance kit redefines precision munitions by hitting targets with pinpoint accuracy and minimal collateral damage, delivering critical lethality when it matters most. The kits are available to all U.S. armed forces, as well as allies via Foreign Military Sales.
SOURCE: PRNewswire