Aerojet Rocketdyne Demonstrates Groundbreaking Propulsion for Next Generation Torpedoes

Rhea-AI Summary

Aerojet Rocketdyne has successfully developed and tested a Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion (SCEPS) lithium boiler for potential use in U.S. Navy torpedoes, enhancing the capabilities of the MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo. Eileen P. Drake, CEO, emphasized the company's commitment to delivering high-quality products while independently funding the project. The SCEPS system utilizes an energetic chemical reaction to power steam turbines and is also poised for future applications in other advanced undersea systems, supporting national security.

Positive

• Successful development and testing of a SCEPS lithium boiler.
• Enhances capabilities of the MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo.
• Independently funded project reflects strong commitment to quality.
• Potential broader applications in advanced undersea systems.

Negative

• None.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Feb. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aerojet Rocketdyne has successfully built and tested a Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion, or SCEPS, lithium boiler which could be used to power the U.S. Navy’s next generation torpedoes.

“Aerojet Rocketdyne’s self-funded manufacturing of a SCEPS lithium boiler demonstrates our strong commitment to delivering affordable, low risk and high quality products to the U.S. Navy,” said Eileen P. Drake, Aerojet Rocketdyne CEO and president.

SCEPS is an advanced propulsion system which improves the capabilities of the MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo.

“Maritime security is essential to national security,” said Drake. “The Aerojet Rocketdyne team is proud to enhance and advance our investment in SCEPS propulsion to power the nation’s cutting-edge undersea capability that will ultimately protect what we value most – our homeland, our U.S. military service members and our allies.”

Aerojet Rocketdyne independently funded the fabrication and testing of the SCEPS lithium-based thermal energy system, which uses an energetic chemical reaction to power a steam turbine. The boiler design builds upon the Penn State University Applied Research Laboratory’s (PSU-ARL) technical data package distributed by the U.S. Navy in 2020 for the Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW) program.

In addition to its possible use for torpedoes, such as CRAW, Aerojet Rocketdyne is also developing SCEPS for the larger MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo. Aerojet Rocketdyne is under contract to the U.S. Navy to deliver SCEPS prototype afterbody/tailcone assemblies for an advanced propulsion system for the MK 54 MOD 2 Advanced Lightweight Torpedo (ALWT).

About Aerojet Rocketdyne: Aerojet Rocketdyne, a subsidiary of Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AJRD), is a world-recognized aerospace and defense leader that provides propulsion systems and energetics to the space, missile defense and strategic systems, and tactical systems areas, in support of domestic and international customers. For more information, visit www.Rocket.com and www.AerojetRocketdyne.com. Follow Aerojet Rocketdyne and CEO Eileen Drake on Twitter at @AerojetRdyne and @DrakeEileen.

Media Contacts:
Eileen Lainez, Aerojet Rocketdyne, 571-239-7839
eileen.lainez@rocket.com
Jessica Carlton, Aerojet Rocketdyne, 256-922-6185
jessica.carlton@rocket.com

FAQ

What is the significance of Aerojet Rocketdyne's new SCEPS lithium boiler?

The SCEPS lithium boiler enhances the capabilities of the MK 54 MOD 2 torpedo, which is crucial for U.S. Navy operations.

What does SCEPS stand for in Aerojet Rocketdyne's recent press release?

SCEPS stands for Stored Chemical Energy Propulsion, a new propulsion system being developed by Aerojet Rocketdyne.

When was the SCEPS lithium boiler tested by Aerojet Rocketdyne?

The SCEPS lithium boiler was successfully tested on February 8, 2022.

What are the future applications of the SCEPS technology?

The SCEPS technology may be used for other advanced undersea systems in addition to torpedoes.

How does Aerojet Rocketdyne's SCEPS contribute to national security?

By enhancing naval capabilities, the SCEPS supports maritime security, which is an essential aspect of national security.