Northrop Grumman’s hydrotesting team ensures the durability of solid rocket motors which power missions to the moon and beyond.
Boosting Production
Delivering Solid Rocket Motors at Record Rates
By Jordan Orris & Hillary Walker
In a dynamic geopolitical environment with rapidly evolving threats, the United States and its allies need next-generation solid rocket motors (SRMs) that travel farther, faster and with greater force to propel national defense, missile deterrence and rapid response missions.
Answering the call, Northrop Grumman is scaling production and quickly fielding new capabilities to deliver SRMs at a record pace. To date, we’ve delivered more than 1.3 million SRMs – ranging in size from a few inches to over 12 feet in diameter – that provide the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA and American allies with propulsion capabilities to deter and defend against missile threats, deliver payloads into space and enable discovery beyond our own planet.
“Our goals are clear: we are expediting delivery, expanding range, and enhancing the performance of our rocket motors, all while pushing the boundaries of physics,” said Erik Buice, vice president of missile products.
Scaling Fast: Investing for Capacity
Northrop Grumman has invested more than $1 billion over the last seven years in facility expansion and modernization, which has boosted propellant capacity and increased our existing nationwide footprint by nearly one million square feet of advanced manufacturing facilities supporting propulsion.
"By 2027, we will be ready to double our SRM production capacity,” said Jim Kalberer, vice president of propulsion systems. “This growth reflects our readiness to support a significant surge in SRM demand, driven by an increased interest in space exploration and ongoing global unrest. We foresaw the need years ago and began investing in new facilities accordingly. Today, we are well-prepared for the increased production cadence, particularly as the Golden Dome for America initiative seeks to deepen and diversify the nation’s interceptor capabilities.”
This expansion also supports our commitment to an American-based supply chain and skilled domestic workforce. From site to site, thousands of engineers, technicians and suppliers are working together to meet growing demand.
“Our investments in infrastructure, research and development, American sources of supply, and a highly skilled workforce are designed to meet both today’s and tomorrow’s national security needs,” said Gordon LoPresti, senior director of propulsion systems and controls. “ All of these factors are key enablers in our ability to turn around SRM designs so rapidly.”
Digital Edge, Proven Propulsion Heritage
Northrop Grumman’s digital transformation is driving down production timelines and costs. Integrated tools like modeling, simulation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, additive manufacturing, and virtual reality are accelerating collaboration, automating processes and optimizing every step of development.
“Each platform helps us model, monitor and deliver more effectively, each increasing collaboration and efficiency, while saving time and money,” said Jessica Ramsay, staff engineer, digital engineering & data.
This forward-leaning approach is grounded in a rich history of innovation. Our facilities in Utah, Elkton and at Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) have powered American defense for more than 65 years, with roots dating back to World War II-era propulsion lines.
“These sites form the backbone of our SRM production,” Jim said. “We’re no stranger to meeting American needs when our country needs it most.”
AI and Machine Learning
We use artificial intelligence and machine learning in many of our processes, including using AI to iterate on propellant recipes.
Additive Manufacturing
One additive manufacturing tool we use is a 3D printing robotic arm to seamlessly make specialized parts and materials.
Trusted Partnerships, Global Impact
Northrop Grumman’s SRM production facilities are a true national asset. “Our ABL facility exemplifies our strong manufacturing partnership with the U.S. Government,” Erik said. “We have a long-term lease with the Navy. The Navy owns two plants on the campus, and strategic Northrop Grumman investments have expanded the facility to five total plants.”
The Bacchus site also hosts a Navy-owned, Northrop Grumman-run facility. We partner with the DoD to serve their unique needs and are a trusted partner.
That trust, built over decades, is matched by a relentless drive toward what’s next. With facilities in all 50 states, wide-reaching infrastructure, a legacy of innovation and an experienced workforce, Northrop Grumman is prepared to support our customers’ most critical missions, including space launch, space exploration and national security and defense.
Explore how Northrop Grumman is shaping the future of propulsion technology and how you can get involved with career opportunities.
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