DefenseAnduril and Raytheon Conduct Static Test of Advanced Solid Rocket Motor
Anduril and Raytheon conducted a static test of a solid rocket motor with a Highly Loaded Grain (HLG) configuration on October 7, at the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.
The test is seen as a step forward in propulsion technology for air-to-air weapons, with the HLG motor designed to allow higher volumes of energetic propellant. This could result in increased specific impulse and improved motor performance.
Anduril led the HLG motor design using technology from China Lake, while Raytheon provided technical expertise and oversight during development and testing.
These enhancements aim to extend the range and tactical advantage of U.S. and allied armed forces. The AIM-120 AMRAAM is among the air-to-air missiles that could benefit from the new propellant technology.
The U.S. has prioritized improving air-to-air weapon performance in response to China’s military advancements.
China has invested in long-range air-to-air missiles such as the PL-15 and PL-17, which reportedly exceed the capabilities of current U.S. systems.
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