Key Takeaways
- Saab has selected Anduril Rocket Motor Systems to design solid rocket motors for its Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB).
- The partnership aims to enhance U.S. munitions production and promotes the emergence of new suppliers in a market dominated by just two companies.
- Anduril plans to establish a facility capable of producing around 6,000 solid rocket motors annually, optimizing safety and affordability through innovative manufacturing techniques.
New Partnership to Boost U.S. Munitions Production
Saab has announced its collaboration with Anduril Rocket Motor Systems to design and manufacture solid rocket motors for its Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB). This partnership marks a significant step for Anduril as it aims to become a major player in the U.S. solid rocket motor industry, which currently consists of only two major suppliers.
The initiative highlights the pressing need to scale U.S. munitions production in response to military demands, particularly to replenish stockpiles sent to Ukraine. “This is one of the areas that is really exciting for us,” said Brad Barnard, vice president and general manager of Saab’s land systems in the U.S. “We are building strategic partnerships that will complement our broader capacity and capability growth strategy.”
The GLSDB has been a collaborative project between Saab and Boeing since 2014, combining precision-fires capability with comprehensive coverage. Having demonstrated its effectiveness in 2019, the team secured a contract from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 to bolster U.S. European Command operations. To maintain the GLSDB’s relevance, the partnership identified the necessity to switch from the outdated M26 MLRS solid rocket motor to a new supplier. Following a competitive evaluation, Anduril was chosen for its proactive technical solutions and timely delivery schedule.
Both companies are committed to expanding their manufacturing abilities in the U.S. Saab is currently developing a facility in Grayling, Michigan, set to produce GLSDB systems domestically within the next year. Meanwhile, Anduril has invested $75 million to construct a new solid rocket motor production facility in McHenry, Mississippi, following its acquisition of a solid rocket motor company in 2023. According to Neil Thurgood, senior vice president at Anduril, the company is focused on increasing competition within the solid rocket motor sector, aiming to produce approximately 6,000 motors each year.
Anduril’s production capabilities are expected to be fully functional following a 100-day initial certification process, allowing them to transition to full-rate production in 2026. The company plans to deliver an enhanced design for the rocket motors that emphasizes safety, cost-effectiveness, and incorporates innovative manufacturing processes. Thurgood conveyed optimism about the collaboration with Saab, stating, “We believe we’re in a really good position to scale quickly with the factory and the innovation we use.”
To streamline production, Anduril will employ single-piece-flow manufacturing techniques, high-speed mixing, and automation, enabling flexible motor creation on the same production line. This modular production approach represents a significant departure from traditional manufacturing methods in the solid rocket motor industry.
Once the propellant recipe for the GLSDB is finalized, Anduril will initiate testing to prepare for mass production. A comprehensive system-level test is anticipated for the second or third quarter of next year. This innovative partnership signifies a crucial development in bolstering U.S. defense capabilities while adding a much-needed competitive element to the solid rocket motor sector.
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