Kristin Houston will lead the standalone space propulsion company as AE Industrial plans investment in RL10 engines, in-space thrusters, and nuclear power systems, while L3Harris keeps a minority stake.
AE Industrial Partners has completed its acquisition of the space propulsion, power and electronics units from L3Harris Technologies and launched the business as Rocketdyne, restoring the brand as an independent company. L3Harris will retain a minority stake and remain a strategic partner. Kristin Houston, who previously led the Space Propulsion & Power Systems sector within L3Harris' Missile Solutions segment, has been named Chief Executive Officer. AE Industrial said it will increase investment in Rocketdyne's core capabilities, including upgrades to RL10 rocket engine technology and manufacturing, higher output of in-space propulsion thrusters, and development of nuclear power and energy solutions for space applications. The firm said the move comes as demand rises across civil, commercial, and national security space markets, supported by geopolitical competition and record government spending on space.