Firefly Aerospace has been selected by the Air Force Research Laboratory(AFRL) to design a nozzle extension made of ceramic matrix composite(CMC) material to replace metal parts used in liquid propulsion engines.
Development of ceramic matrix composite for AFRL engine
CMC was chosen for its ability to withstand high temperatures and its low weight, with properties that enhance vehicle performance and increase payload capacity. According to Firefly Aerospacethis solution could reduce the mass of current nozzles by more than 50% and shorten delivery times thanks to a more agile production process.
In addition to technical performance, ceramic composites offer logistical advantages: from domestic availability, which minimizes dependence on foreign materials and strengthens the local supply chain.
With its track record in manufacturing lightweight carbon components and high-performance engines, Firefly will apply this expertise to validate the new nozzle. The company plans to integrate this design into the Lightning and Vira engines, which respectively power the Alpha rocket and its future medium-lift launcher.
Firefly’s approach addresses a growing need: lighter, more versatile and faster-to-deploy space systems aligned with current industry requirements and the strategic interests of the U.S. government.
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Source and photo: Firefly Aerospace
