The U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) successfully launched a missile powered by a Solid Fuel Integral Rocket Ramjet (SFIRR) engine. The test, conducted at the Point Mugu sea range, involved a modified BQM-34 drone used as the launch platform.
According to the U.S. Navy, the missile launch test equipped with a ramjet engine also served as an opportunity to integrate the use of a fire control system into the unmanned BQM-34 vehicle. “Launching the missile from an unmanned vehicle can allow warfighters to safely engage targets from greater distances” the press release stated.
The NAWCWD, acting as the integrator of the project, combined advanced propulsion, avionics, and fire control technologies into a single technology demonstrator for this test—an achievement completed in just 12 months. “Rapidly transitioning technologies from research to operational use is critical for maintaining a warfighting advantage” stated the research agency.
Abbey Horning, Product Director at NAWCWD’s Advanced Concepts, Prototyping and Experimentation office, commented: “…This successful integration validates key aspects of our design and moves us closer to delivering an advanced propulsion system that will provide warfighters with greater range and speed… We’re not just revisiting an old idea; we’re refining and modernizing it to fit today’s mission…”
NAWCWD highlighted that while solid-fuel ramjet engine technology is not new, this test demonstrates its relevance on the modern battlefield. With the development of the SFIRR, the aim is to simplify ramjet missile propulsion by removing liquid-fuel models from the equation.
A solid-fuel ramjet engine allows missiles to carry more payload and cover longer distances while improving maneuverability. “…SFIRR offers a balance of affordability, reliability and performance tailored to the Navy’s operational needs…,” Horning emphasized.
Ephraim Washburn, Deputy Director of Energetics at NAWCWD, added, “This is a combat-credible technology… We are working to refine its range, endurance, and targeting capabilities…”
Cover image: U.S. Navy
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