Raytheon, an RTX business, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Avio to establish a new, state-of-the-art solid rocket motor (SRM) production facility within the United States. This initiative is designed to bolster the domestic industrial base by creating an additional, vertically integrated merchant supplier for critical propulsion systems. Under the agreement, Raytheon will receive preferred access to a significant share of the plant’s production capacity, ensuring a reliable stream of SRMs to meet future demand for its key weapon systems.
This strategic partnership represents a major expansion of the collaboration between Raytheon and Avio. It builds directly upon a contract signed in July 2024 for preliminary engineering work on the Mk 104 rocket motor, as well as a subsequent purchase order to fund efforts through the Critical Design Review phase and to procure long-lead materials needed for qualification. This progression underscores a committed, step-by-step approach to ramping up advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Bob Butz, Raytheon’s vice president of Operations, Supply Chain and Quality, emphasized that the agreement directly supports meeting the increasing demands of their customers. He highlighted the value of leveraging Avio’s extensive experience and unique capabilities in SRM propulsion development and manufacturing. This collaboration is a strategic move to strengthen the industrial capacity required for producing critical defense products, thereby enhancing supply chain resilience for the U.S. and its allies.
For Avio, this project marks a significant establishment of its manufacturing footprint in the U.S. VADM Ret. Jim Syring, CEO of Avio USA, expressed pride in the partnership and stated the company’s intention to leverage the incredible pedigree and experience of its Italian parent company, Avio S.p.A. The new facility will position Avio as a true vertically integrated merchant supplier in the American market. Both companies are committed to the successful implementation of this initiative, which will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for advanced solid rocket motors and ensuring the continued success of both Raytheon and Avio in delivering high-quality defense products.
