Space Development Agency Approves L3Harris Design Plans for New Missile Tracking Satellites

Rhea-AI Summary

L3Harris Technologies has achieved a significant milestone in developing a missile tracking satellite prototype for the Space Development Agency. The completion of the Preliminary Design Review establishes the spacecraft’s design baseline, advancing the project for rapid deployment. With a contract valued at $193 million extending through 2025, this initiative aims to enhance the detection and tracking of ballistic and hypersonic missiles from low earth orbit. Continued investment in satellite solutions demonstrates L3Harris's commitment to meeting evolving defense needs.

Positive

• Completed Preliminary Design Review for missile tracking satellite prototype, advancing project timeline.
• Contract valued at $193 million, which runs through 2025, ensuring sustained revenue and project development.
• Investment in end-to-end satellite solutions highlights commitment to innovation in defense technology.

Negative

• None.

Highlights:

• Defines design baseline for Space Development Agency’s missile tracking program
• Demonstrates ability to move quickly for rapid acquisition prototype programs
• Allows L3Harris to continue development of critical missile warning satellite

MELBOURNE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has accomplished a key milestone in the development of a missile tracking satellite prototype for the Space Development Agency (SDA).

The completed Preliminary Design Review (PDR) defines the spacecraft’s design baseline for delivery to SDA and allows the program to move to the next stage of delivering ground-breaking new capabilities at speed. When completed, the satellites will provide the capability to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles via overhead persistent infrared sensing from low earth orbit.

“We’ve worked closely with SDA to ensure our design taps proven technology that can scale to address the changing mission,” said Ed Zoiss, President of L3Harris Space and Airborne Systems. “We understand the threat and are focused on delivery.”

L3Harris received the tracking layer prototype award in 2020 to develop and integrate an end-to-end satellite system under a $193 million firm fixed-price contract. Total period of performance runs through 2025 and covers four space vehicle launches.

L3Harris is prioritizing investments in end-to-end satellite solutions in spacecraft, payloads, ground software and advanced algorithms. L3Harris is also developing a prototype for the Missile Defense Agency’s Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor.

About L3Harris Technologies

L3Harris Technologies is an agile global aerospace and defense technology innovator, delivering end-to-end solutions that meet customers’ mission-critical needs. The company provides advanced defense and commercial technologies across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains. L3Harris has approximately $18 billion in annual revenue and 47,000 employees, with customers in 130 countries. L3Harris.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect management's current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Such statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements about the value or expected value of orders, contracts or programs and about technology capabilities are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. L3Harris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210920005159/en/

Kristin P. Jones

Space and Airborne Systems

Kristin.P.Jones@L3Harris.com

571-419-4718

Jim Burke

Media Relations

Jim.Burke@L3Harris.com

321-727-9131

Source: L3Harris Technologies

FAQ

What milestone has LHX achieved in developing missile tracking satellites?

LHX has completed the Preliminary Design Review for a missile tracking satellite prototype, allowing the program to advance to the next stage.

What is the value and duration of the LHX contract with the Space Development Agency?

The contract is valued at $193 million and runs through 2025.

How does LHX's missile tracking satellite benefit national security?

The satellite will enhance the capability to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles from low earth orbit.

What technology focus does LHX emphasize in its latest satellite development?

LHX is focusing on end-to-end satellite solutions, including spacecraft, payloads, and advanced algorithms.