Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has won a US contract for a mid-tier arc jet and fiber laser facility to test hypersonic materials.
The $68.3-million contract was awarded through the US Department of Defense’s Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program.
The facility will accelerate the development of materials from lab tests to operational systems, while supporting hypersonic and strategic defense programs and improving testing efficiency.
It will use a 25-megawatt arc jet to simulate the extreme heat experienced by hypersonic vehicles, along with a 200-kilowatt fiber laser to test materials under concentrated high temperatures.
This combination allows realistic evaluation of thermal protection systems, bridging the gap between small-scale lab tests and large government testing facilities.
By partnering with North Wind and New Horizon 5, the project will also foster collaboration and innovation.
Once operational, the venue will support all branches of the US armed forces and the Department of Defense.
Latest Projects
Kratos has recently secured multiple agreements and partnerships with US military and defense firms across a range of advanced technologies.
Earlier this month, the US Navy selected the company to set up an in-house maintenance and support program for its AN/SPY-1 radars on Aegis cruisers and destroyers.
In September, California-based Elroy Air selected Kratos to manufacture its Chaparral cargo drone under a five-year agreement, supporting large-scale production of the hybrid-electric, autonomous vertical takeoff and landing system.
Earlier this year, Kratos and Rafael launched a joint venture, Prometheus Energetics, to develop solid rocket motors for military applications.
The venture, operating from a 500-acre (202-hectare) site near Crane, Indiana, is a joint partnership with equal ownership between the two companies, backed by $175 million in capital to support operations.
