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Shown here is a thrust chamber from a two-chamber XLR-87 engine that powered the first stage of the U.S Air Force's Titan I intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Each gimabled chamber generated 150,300 pounds of thrust, consuming RP-1 fuel (a highly refined form of kerosene) and liquid oxygen.

The Aerojet General Corporation began developing the engine in 1954, in response to national concern about improved Soviet launch capability. It served as the backup system to the Atlas, the U.S.'s first operational ICBM, which entered service in 1960. Aerojet delivered the first XLR-87 in 1957, and the Air Force completed the first successful Titan I launch on February 6, 1959. The Titan I entered the Air Force inventory in 1963, but quickly became obsolete with the introduction of the more advanced Titan II, which featured storable, hypergolic (storable )propellants. The Air Force deactivated its Titan I missiles in 1966.

Transferred from NASA.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Rocket Engines Manufacturer Aerojet General Corp.
 Dimensions Length, 87 inches; diameter, 46 inches
 Materials Ferrous Alloy
Stainless steel
Inconel (nickel, chromium, iron alloy)
Possible Paint
Possible Asbestos
 Inventory Number A19720284000 Credit Line Transferred from NASA George C. Marshall Space Flight Center. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.