The Mk 72 solid rocket motor is designed to meet current performance requirements while improving manufacturability, lead times and cost efficiency. Northrop Grumman said it is using low-risk solutions and innovative qualification and production methods to accelerate the delivery of new and second-source rocket motors.
The U.S. Navy-funded test validated the alignment between the company’s digital twin and performance modelling technologies and measured motor performance. Northrop Grumman said the programme also addressed manufacturability, producibility and supply chain resilience challenges through tailored trade studies and the establishment of multiple sources for critical components.
The company said it has made substantial investments in facilities, capacity and advanced technologies to support the delivery of weapons systems and solid rocket motors at scale. Over the past seven years, Northrop Grumman has invested more than $1 billion in advanced manufacturing facilities across the United States to increase solid rocket motor and missile component production.
These investments include tripling tactical solid rocket motor capacity in West Virginia and plans to double large solid rocket motor production capacity in Utah over the next five years. Northrop Grumman said its advanced digital manufacturing capabilities also support the development of highly skilled technical talent and contribute to economic growth in the Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania region.
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