Lockheed Martin is partnering with Texas-based Venus Aerospace to evaluate a new rocket engine technology that could significantly increase the range and speed of future U.S. missile systems.
The companies announced a joint technology development agreement Tuesday focused on Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) technology for future long-range precision fires applications.
The effort combines Venus Aerospace’s flight-tested propulsion technology with Lockheed Martin’s expertise in missile development, system integration and advanced manufacturing.
Under the agreement, the companies will assess how RDRE technology could be used in next-generation precision fires systems that require greater range, faster response times and improved operational flexibility.
“Lockheed Martin is focused on rapidly delivering advanced capabilities that strengthen deterrence and provide decisive advantages for the warfighter,” said Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “Our collaboration with Venus Aerospace allows us to evaluate a promising propulsion technology and determine how it can be integrated into future precision fires solutions. Partnerships like this help accelerate innovation, reduce risk and rapidly advance from emerging technology to operational capability.”
Unlike conventional rocket engines that rely on subsonic combustion, RDREs generate thrust through continuously traveling detonation waves. The approach has the potential to improve propulsion efficiency while reducing engine complexity, allowing missile systems to travel farther and reach targets more quickly.
The announcement also builds on Lockheed Martin’s expanding hypersonics work in North Alabama. In July, Lockheed Martin opened its new 88,000-square-foot Missile Assembly Building 5 in Courtland, where the company will produce the Next Generation Interceptor for the Missile Defense Agency.
Venus Aerospace co-founder and CEO Sassie Duggleby said the company’s propulsion architecture is designed for customers seeking more than incremental improvements.
“Defense customers are asking for more than incremental gains from legacy propulsion,” Duggleby said. “Our RDRE technology offers a different propulsion architecture for systems that need more range, more speed and a realistic path to production. This agreement with Lockheed Martin moves our breakthrough closer to real precision fires applications.”
The announcement is particularly significant for Huntsville, where Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control business develops and supports a wide range of advanced weapons programs for the U.S. military.
The companies said the work aligns with the Department of War’s push for technologies that deliver greater performance while remaining affordable, manufacturable and scalable for production.
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