Kratos Issues Letter of Intent for Hypersonic Rocket Motors to Enhance National Security
SAN DIEGO, December 23, 2025 — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a leader in the defense and national security sectors, has issued a letter of intent to L3Harris Technologies for the procurement of 60 Zeus hypersonic rocket motors. This acquisition includes 40 Zeus 1 and 20 Zeus 2 solid rocket motors (SRMs), and signifies Kratos’ commitment to advancing hypersonic technology for U.S. national defense.
Significance of the Zeus SRM Acquisition
The order amounts to a strategic investment that aligns with Kratos’ approach of making internally funded enhancements to ensure rapid delivery of cost-effective solutions. The Zeus SRMs represent a marked improvement over legacy systems, designed to facilitate faster, more efficient flights with fewer stages. Their compatibility with existing payloads and launch infrastructure offers significant flexibility for future technology integration.
- 40 Zeus 1 solid rocket motors
- 20 Zeus 2 solid rocket motors
- High-performance motors with a 32.5-inch diameter
- Designed for rapid integration and affordable production
Executive Insights on Kratos' Strategy
In a statement regarding the purchase, Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, emphasized the importance of proactive investment: “This strategic purchase of Zeus hypersonic rocket motors reflects our longstanding commitment to invest our own capital to build capacity ahead of demand.” DeMarco also noted that this alignment supports the acquisition reform priorities aimed at speeding up military capabilities.
Innovative Hypersonic Systems Development
Kratos has specifically tailored the Zeus SRMs to meet market demands for affordable commercial launch vehicle stages. These motors are set to revolutionize hypersonic test capabilities and serve diverse applications, including scientific research and special missions. The development process involved close collaboration with end-user communities to fine-tune motor specifications.
This initiative further underscores Kratos’ role as a leading provider of hypersonic systems, bolstered by its prior developments, including the Erinyes hypersonic test flyer. The addition of the Zeus family of SRMs complements Kratos’ existing investments and enhances its portfolio of test and evaluation products.
Commitment to National Defense
The new order not only highlights Kratos' commitment to the Department of Defense but also demonstrates a broader strategy of ensuring readiness for urgent military needs. This follows a recent order for 60 Oriole 22-inch diameter solid rocket motors, enhancing the company’s ability to provide rapid and relevant flight test platforms.
About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) specializes in delivering innovative and cost-effective products and systems for defense and national security markets. The company invests in research and development to respond to mission-critical needs, ensuring rapid deployment of solutions that are technologically advanced and affordable.
Looking Ahead
Kratos is recognized as a disruptive force in the aerospace industry, committed to pushing the boundaries of hypersonic technology while maintaining affordability. For further updates and information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This article contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements reflect current beliefs and expectations and involve risks that could lead to materially different results. Interested parties should refer to Kratos’ risk disclosures for further information on potential uncertainties.