Dynetics Technical Solutions Helps Launch Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon Program
In 2019, Lockheed Martin (LM) selected Dynetics Technical Solutions (DTS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Dynetics, to support its efforts on the U.S. Army's Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) prototype. Just 24 months later, the LM-DTS team delivered all four launchers for the first LRHW battery.
The LRHW prototype includes a new All Up Round plus Canister (AUR+C), a Common Hypersonic Glide Body (CHGB), a refurbished trailer and truck, modified as a developmental launcher, and an updated existing Army command and control system. The LRHW battery fielding will be complete in FY23.
The program, which is led by the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO), is introducing a new class of ultrafast, maneuverable, long-range missiles that can launch from ground platforms. The effort is part of the Army's number one modernization priority - Long Range Precision Fires.
North Alabama is home to the RCCTO headquarters, and both Lockheed Martin and DTS have facilities there.
"The proximity to Redstone Arsenal is a huge bonus for the companies working Army programs in the Rocket City," said Ronnie Chronister, Dynetics Senior Vice President of Weapons Technology and Manufacturing. "Because the Army has made this mission such a priority, it's a privilege to be able to work so closely with them on hypersonic technologies to defend our country."
An Insider's Perspective
Prior to joining DTS almost two years ago, Rebecca Bradford, program manager for the LRHW Launcher Platform, had a career that focused on delivering missile defense capabilities to our country's warfighters. The LRHW program has allowed her to use her skills to benefit the country in a different way.
"This group has provided me the opportunity to support an offensive program," said Bradford. "I love being able to see a project from the early design engineering stage all the way through launcher trailer deliveries, and I've been able to do just that here at DTS."
Bradford previously served as the LRHW deputy program manager for DTS, where she assisted the team with risk management, procurement tracking, scheduling updates and financial reporting since the program's inception in early 2020. That experience has transferred seamlessly to her new lead role, where she's been tasked with finalizing the contract in September 2022.
"Earlier this year, the program had over 245 employees supporting this program during the height of our production activities," said Bradford. "I've enjoyed watching the growth throughout the years - it's a very rewarding program to be a part of."
The History of the Program
Dynetics was awarded $351.6 million in August of 2019 to produce the first commercially manufactured set of prototype C-HGB systems, initiating the transition from government production to industry production. The glide body will be a part of an integrated Army hypersonic weapon system prototype that will deliver residual combat capability to Soldiers by 2023.
Lockheed Martin selected DTS to be a part of the LRHW systems integration contract. Lockheed Martin is also focusing on integrating a launcher that can accommodate the C-HGB onto a mobile platform. As part of the effort, DTS developed launchers with hydraulics, outriggers, power generation and distribution for the ground platform. Additionally, DTS is providing flight test and training support.
