Northrop Grumman Secures Significant U.S. Navy Contract for Advanced Propulsion Systems

New Contract Highlights Enhanced Defense Capabilities

On January 7, 2025, Northrop Grumman Corporation, a prominent player in aerospace and defense technology, announced the receipt of a substantial contract valued at $94.3 million from the U.S. Navy. This agreement focuses on the development and qualification of a cutting-edge 21-inch diameter second-stage solid rocket motor (SSRM), designed to bolster the Navy’s extended-range missile capabilities aimed at countering fast-moving aerial, surface, and hypersonic threats.

Strategic Advantages of the SSRM

The newly developed SSRM offers several strategic advantages:

• Rapid Deployment: This low-risk design allows quick integration into existing systems, providing a cost-effective means for the Navy to enhance its hypersonic defense capabilities.

• Enhanced Operational Flexibility: Engineered for high performance, the 21-inch rocket motor significantly increases both range and speed across a variety of military applications, including air and surface warfare, land strike operations, and ballistic missile defense.

• Broad Application Across Platforms: The extended-range propulsion technology has the potential for deployment on numerous platforms, highlighting its versatility and operational significance.

The design and initial production plans involve the manufacture of 60 units at Northrop Grumman’s Propulsion Innovation Center located in Elkton, Maryland. This facility is central to high-performance propulsion system development, underscoring the company’s commitment to meeting the Navy’s urgent operational needs.

Expert Insight: Emphasizing Rapid Development

Gordon LoPresti, Senior Director of Propulsion Systems and Control at Northrop Grumman, remarked on the significance of this contract, stating, “Our selection by the U.S. Navy illustrates not only our capacity for rapid development but also our leadership in advanced propulsion systems. The swift demonstration of our SSRM in just 10 months highlights our capability to deliver affordable, versatile solutions that will enhance the Navy’s defense and deterrent operations.”

Investment in Advanced Manufacturing Capability

Northrop Grumman remains dedicated to producing advanced weapon systems and solid rocket motors at scale. The company’s investment of nearly $1 billion since 2018 sets a strong foundation for expanding its manufacturing facilities and technological capabilities in response to escalating demand. With a proven track record of delivering over one million solid rocket motors, Northrop Grumman’s established reputation as a reliable supplier in the defense sector is well-deserved.

Manufacturing Network Expansion

Northrop Grumman’s propulsion operations extend across six strategic locations in West Virginia, Utah, and Maryland, encompassing a total of 10 million square feet dedicated to manufacturing. Key enhancements include:

• Doubling production capacity for large solid rocket motors in Utah.
• Tripling capacity for small tactical SSRMs at the West Virginia facility.
• Aiming for a 25% increase in Maryland’s production capabilities to support future high-demand programs, including air-breathing hypersonic propulsion solutions.

This robust expansion reinforces Northrop Grumman’s role in sustaining a resilient defense industrial base capable of adapting to evolving military requirements.

A Leader in Aerospace and Defense

As a vanguard of aerospace and defense technology, Northrop Grumman is committed to providing innovative solutions that empower customers to safeguard and connect global interests while advancing the frontiers of exploration. With a shared mission to address complex challenges, Northrop Grumman’s workforce remains dedicated to redefining what is possible within the realms of defense and technological advancement.

Photo credits:

Courtesy of Northrop Grumman