L3Harris partners with Firefly Aerospace for multilaunch services

Firefly Aerospace announced Sept. 5 its collaboration with L3Harris Technologies for three satellite launches on Firefly's Alpha vehicle in 2026 from the SLC-2 launch site at Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Under this multilaunch agreement, Firefly will assist L3Harris with rapid launch capabilities that will result in direct access to low Earth orbit at a lower cost and aid the space needs of the U.S. military, according to the announcement.

According to media reports, L3Harris won a $225 million contract to design and build three satellites to support the national security space mission.

“Firefly is honored to support the ongoing mission needs of L3Harris as they continue to deliver satellite systems that advance our national security,” Bill Weber, Firefly Aerospace's chief executive officer, said in the announcement.

Highlighting features of the Alpha vehicle, the company said it has the capability to launch more than 1000 kg to LEO and “provides affordable, responsive and reliable launch service for small satellites and spacecraft.”

Additionally, Firefly has doubled the size of its facilities to assist its ongoing contract with Northrop Grumman to build a medium launch vehicle to lift off in 2025 “to serve the commercial, civil and national security space launch market.”

The company is currently focused on increasing Alpha production from its rocket manufacturing and test site in Briggs, TX, to contribute to multiple government and commercial launches, the announcement states.