• L3Harris reduces hypersonic component manufacturing time by tenfold. • Digital line converts powdered metal into complete propulsion systems. • Initiative supports GAMMA‑H, a defense additive manufacturing program. • New process cuts external supplier reliance and lowers costs. • Enhances rapid prototyping for air‑breathing hypersonics.

Article Summaries:

  • L3Harris Technologies announced that its new digital production line can now 3‑D print air‑breathing hypersonic propulsion components in one‑tenth the time previously required. The system uses large‑envelope metal printers, powdered nickel‑based superalloys, and robotic handling with real‑time melt‑pool monitoring to produce complex internal geometries-cooling channels, fuel passages, and lattice reinforcements-without extensive post‑processing. By consolidating multiple subcomponents into single printed assemblies, the firm cuts part counts, fasteners, and machining steps, lowering costs and supply‑chain complexity. The effort, part of the GAMMA‑H initiative, supports an intent to produce 60 hypersonic rocket motors for Kratos Defense & Security Solutions.

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