Lockheed Martin partners with Venus Aerospace on rotating detonation rocket engine for precision fires

Lockheed Martin and Venus Aerospace have signed a joint technology development agreement, announced on July 21, 2026, to evaluate and mature Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) technology for future long‑range precision‑fire systems. Venus Aerospace recently completed the first U.S. flight test of an RDRE, and the partnership will assess how the propulsion architecture can be integrated into missile designs, moving the concept from subsystem demonstration toward operational capability. Lockheed Martin will contribute its missile integration, manufacturing and defense‑system expertise, while Venus Aerospace provides the flight‑tested propulsion hardware. The collaboration aims to deliver greater range, higher speed and improved efficiency for future precision‑fire weapons, with an emphasis on affordability, scalability and rapid fielding. "Lockheed Martin is focused on rapidly delivering advanced capabilities that strengthen deterrence and provide decisive advantages for the warfighter," said Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

No financial terms or specific program timelines were disclosed.