Kratos delivers advanced ramjet engine technology for future US Army missiles

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions announced on Monday that it has developed, tested, and delivered advanced turbomachinery for Lockheed Martin’s next-generation ramjet propulsion system. The milestone supports an ongoing missile program and follows successful propulsion system testing witnessed by representatives from Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Center. The company said its turbomachinery played a key role in validating the propulsion system before it advances to flight testing, bringing the program closer to potential deployment. Compact system designed for high-performance missiles Kratos developed a compact turbomachinery solution that uses incoming ram air to power critical propulsion system functions. The company said the self-regulating design provides a smaller and lighter alternative to conventional approaches, helping improve the missile’s overall performance while keeping costs under control. Before the equipment was integrated into the complete propulsion system, the firm carried out an extensive standalone testing campaign. The tests evaluated operating conditions, verified component durability, and confirmed that the system met performance targets required for the next stage of development. According to the company, the lightweight design supports the broader goals of improving efficiency and affordability for advanced missile propulsion technologies. Propulsion tests clear path toward flight trials Kratos said the successful turbomachinery validation contributed directly to broader propulsion system testing completed by Lockheed Martin. Those tests confirmed that the ramjet propulsion system is ready to move toward flight testing. Officials from Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Army’s Aviation and Missile Center attended the propulsion system demonstration. The company said the event confirmed that the missile’s core propulsion capability has been validated and is prepared to support near-term fielding plans. Ramjet engines use the missile’s forward speed to compress incoming air instead of relying on rotating compressors found in traditional jet engines. This allows them to sustain high speeds while reducing the number of moving parts, making them well suited for advanced long-range missile systems. Kratos highlights long-term propulsion strategy “Kratos is a leader in propulsion technology, dedicated to the rapid development, demonstration and deployment of innovative solutions,” said Stacey Rock, President of Kratos Turbine Technologies. “Our philosophy is to collaborate with industry leaders who share our mission of delivering cutting-edge technologies and capabilities to market quickly and cost-effectively. This opportunity with Lockheed Martin has been highly successful and represents a cornerstone of our long-term strategic initiatives.” The company said it continues to invest in research, development, manufacturing capabilities, and infrastructure to expand its turbomachinery portfolio for advanced propulsion applications. It further added that these internally funded investments allow it to rapidly produce high-performance systems while supporting demanding U.S. defense requirements. As military programs increasingly seek faster and more efficient missile technologies, compact propulsion components such as advanced turbomachinery are becoming an important part of next-generation weapon development. Recommended ArticlesGet the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.A versatile writer, Sujita has worked with Mashable Middle East and News Daily 24. When she isn't writing, you can find her glued to the latest web series and movies.