Raytheon, an RTX business, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Avio to support the establishment of a new, state-of-the-art solid rocket motor (SRM) production facility in the United States. The strategic initiative is designed to bolster the domestic industrial base for critical propulsion systems.
Under the agreement, the new Avio facility will operate as a vertically integrated merchant supplier, serving Raytheon and other defense customers. Raytheon will secure preferred access to a portion of the plant’s manufacturing capacity, ensuring a reliable stream of advanced SRMs for its future missile and weapon system programs.
This collaboration builds upon recent joint efforts, including a July 2024 contract for preliminary engineering on the Mk 104 rocket motor and a subsequent purchase order to fund the project through its Critical Design Review and the procurement of long-lead materials.
Bob Butz, Vice President of Operations, Supply Chain and Quality at Raytheon, emphasized the partnership’s strategic importance. “This agreement will help establish an additional supplier of solid rocket motors within the U.S. and demonstrates our commitment to meeting the increasing demands of our customers,” Butz stated. “By leveraging Avio’s experience and unique capabilities, we’re strengthening our capacity for critical weapon systems.”
The new facility will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for advanced propulsion technology. Avio USA CEO, Retired Vice Admiral Jim Syring, expressed confidence in the venture, highlighting the expertise drawn from its Italian parent company, Avio S.p.A. “We are proud to be partnered with Raytheon… We look forward to leveraging the incredible pedigree and experience of our parent company as we build our factory and establish in the U.S.,” Syring said.
Both companies are committed to the successful implementation of this initiative, which will support the defense requirements of the United States and its allied partners.
