Kratos Boosts Engine Production for Boeing's JDAM Long Range Weapon
Kratos is gearing up to supply its high-performance engines for Boeing's Joint Direct Attack Munition Long Range (JDAM LR) production program. The JDAM LR weapon system, which can travel over 300 nautical miles while carrying a 500-pound payload, will be equipped with Kratos' Spartan TDI-J85 engines.
To support the production of these engines, Kratos has begun procuring long-lead components and executing a three-phase manufacturing infrastructure plan. This expansion is taking place at its 22,500-square-foot Propulsion Manufacturing Facility in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
The contract award to Boeing comes after it was given an undefinitized contract action worth $75 million in early August to acquire the JDAM LR's BSU-111/B Payload Delivery Units for the US Navy. According to Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems, 'Kratos' internally funded and proactive supply-chain investments ensure we are not just preparing for future demand, and we are actively manufacturing the high-volume propulsion systems our customers require today.'