U.S  

L3Harris partners with Lockheed Martin to provide propulsion for the US Missile Defense Agency’s Next Generation Interceptor, enhancing homeland security against evolving ballistic missile threats. Scheduled for operational deployment by 2027, the NGI program represents a crucial step in countering emerging threats to US soil.

In a significant stride towards bolstering US missile defense capabilities, L3Harris, in collaboration with Lockheed Martin, has embarked on a mission to provide cutting-edge propulsion technology for the US Missile Defense Agency’s Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) program. This joint effort marks a pivotal step in the US Department of Defense's ongoing endeavor to fortify its initial line of defense against long-range ballistic missile threats.

Lockheed Martin clinched the contract to assemble the NGI platform in April 2024, triumphing over Northrop Grumman in the process. Anticipated to be operational as early as 2027, the NGI program aims to deliver the first interceptor capable of countering evolving threats to homeland security.

Christopher Kubasik, CEO and Chair of L3Harris, expressed confidence in their propulsion technology, citing its longstanding role in powering the nation's missile defense systems. He underscored the team's expertise as the leading provider of propulsion for Missile Defense Agency interceptor programs currently in production.

The NGI program has been steadily progressing, with Lockheed Martin achieving all subsystem preliminary design reviews for its NGI model by August 2023. A year prior, the company showcased the future interceptor's radio-based communications system, tested across various challenging environments.

The journey towards NGI began in 2021 when Lockheed Martin, alongside Northrop Grumman, secured a $1.6 billion award to kickstart the design process for the NGI procurement’s technology development and risk reduction phase.

The Pentagon emphasized the significance of NGI in enhancing homeland defense, stating that the program represents a comprehensive approach to address evolving threats. NGI is poised to remain effective well into the 2030s and beyond, equipped to counter anticipated advancements in missile technology.

In summary, the collaboration between L3Harris and Lockheed Martin signifies a crucial milestone in fortifying US missile defense capabilities. With NGI at the forefront, the nation is poised to meet emerging threats head-on, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens for years to come.