The XLR-87 rocket engine powered the first stage of the two-stage Titan I intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). It consists of two side-by-side rocket chambers; the missile's second stage was a one-chamber engine. Both first-and second-stage engines used liquid oxygen and kerosene. This engine produced about 150,000 pounds of thrust from each chamber, or 300,000 pounds total, and was built by the Aerojet General Corporation.
Developed from 1954 as a backup to the Atlas ICBM, the Titan I was intended to help close the "missile gap" with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It was later replaced by the improved Titan II, that had storable fuels and could be prepared for launch faster. The Titan II also launched the two-man Project Gemini spacecraft. This object was donated to the Smithsonian in 1972 by the U.S. Air Force.
Display Status
This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Manufacturer
Aerojet General Corp.
Dimensions
Overall: 12 ft. wide x 12 ft. long, 4200 lb. (365.76 x 365.76cm, 1905.1kg)
Materials
Overall, stainless steel, steel, and inconel (nickel, chromium and iron alloy); feed line wrapped with metal tape
Alternate Name
Titan 1 Rocket Engine
Inventory Number
A19721009000
Credit Line
Transferred from U.S. Air Force
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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