Aerojet Rocketdyne Opens Additional Modernized Facility to Support US Sentinel Program

Defense News - Aerojet Rocketdyne, a subsidiary of L3Harris Technologies, has recently inaugurated a hardware center dedicated to supporting the LGM-35A Sentinel program for the US Department of Defense.

The LGM-35A, also known as the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent, is in development to replace the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system, a stalwart in service since the 1970s. Upon completion, the LGM-35A will integrate into the Pentagon nuclear triad, fortifying its capabilities through the year 2075.

Focusing on the crucial Post Boost Propulsion System, the Sentinel program will utilize Aerojet Rocketdyne facility for the hardware fabrication essential to the final assembly of this pivotal system. Spanning an impressive 10,000-square-foot area, this specialized facility is designed for precise assembly tasks.

Beyond its role in the Sentinel program, the center will provide support to other Rocketdyne facilities dedicated to engineering, manufacturing, and development. These efforts will extend to various projects involving large solid rocket motors and inert motor case components.

Aerojet Rocketdyne, acknowledging its extensive history in developing advanced propulsion systems for defense programs, expressed enthusiasm about the new Sentinel Post Boost Propulsion Assembly Area. This facility is poised to build upon the company rich heritage as it embarks on delivering post-boost systems integral to the Sentinel program.

In tandem with its booster responsibilities, Rocketdyne is actively involved in a contractual commitment to manufacture the third-stage solid rocket motor for the Sentinel program. Key milestones, including the completion of the post-boost propulsion system critical design review and the casting of the first stage 3 solid rocket motor, have been achieved. The company is now gearing up for fabrication, testing, and demonstration, paving the way for full-scale production.