Investing in Deterrence: L3Harris Expands Support for the Sentinel Program
In response to evolving threats and rising capabilities of adversaries, the urgency to modernize the United States’ land-based strategic deterrence system is clear. The LGM-35A Sentinel program stands out as a next-generation solution designed to deliver sustained, credible deterrence for the future.
L3Harris has a longstanding history of powering the U.S. defense arsenal with unmatched propulsion systems known for their speed and reliability. This experience is critical as the company develops the post boost propulsion system (PBPS) and Stage 3 solid rocket motor (SRM) for the Sentinel program.
Committed to Northrop Grumman’s Sentinel industry team, L3Harris is significantly investing in expanding its capacity to accelerate production. This includes the ongoing construction of the Arkansas Advanced Propulsion Facilities (AAPF) at the company’s Camden, Arkansas site. Once operational by the end of 2027, this facility is set to increase large SRM manufacturing capacity sixfold, encompassing over 20 buildings across 110 acres, and will leverage cutting-edge digital processes and automation to boost efficiency and enhance safety.
In addition to expanding its facilities, L3Harris is enhancing the vital propulsion systems necessary for Sentinel’s demanding missions. The PBPS is engineered for exo-atmospheric flight and has already reached significant milestones, including a hot-fire test in 2025. Similarly, the Stage 3 SRM is being developed with innovative materials and manufacturing processes to ensure reliability and cost-effectiveness. This motor has successfully completed various milestones toward flight testing, with plans for a hot-fire test scheduled for early 2024.
To ensure these systems meet mission requirements, L3Harris employs advanced technologies and improved manufacturing methods, including statistical process controls and automated mixing. These innovations support the production of high-quality motors that contribute to making the Sentinel a safe, secure, reliable, and credible deterrent.
Meanwhile, L3Harris is expanding its workforce across its facilities in Camden, Arkansas, Huntsville, Alabama, and Los Angeles, California. With skilled teams, specialized facilities, and ongoing investments, L3Harris is poised to address both current and future national security challenges.
As Sentinel’s flight tests approach, L3Harris reaffirms its commitment as a key partner to the U.S. Air Force and Northrop Grumman in the land-based segment of America’s strategic deterrence strategy.
Source: L3Harris (2026-10-22)
