The expansion follows a fourfold increase in TR40 demand in recent years, according to Safran Chief Executive Olivier Andriès. Safran also said it is prepared to make further capacity increases in the United States to meet defense industry requirements.
“Demand for our TR40 turbojet engine family has quadrupled in recent years and we see significant opportunities for future applications,” Andriès said. “By launching a new assembly line at our Texas site, we are meeting the accelerating demand of our strategic customers.”
The investment adds to an established Texas manufacturing operation that already assembles engines for Kratos BQM-167 and BQM-177 aerial targets. Safran Power Units has been based in the state since 1989 and also supplies auxiliary power units for the T-45 Goshawk jet trainer.
Andriès linked the expansion to strengthening the company’s U.S. supply chain. “By investing in advanced technologies and local talent, we are strengthening the resilience of critical supply chains,” he said.
The TR40 family was developed for anti-ship missile applications, with a compact design and high thrust-to-weight ratio that support integration. Safran said more than 1,200 units have been delivered worldwide over more than 20 years of commercial and operational use.
TR40 is Safran Power Units’ best-selling engine and is produced at scale for new-generation munitions. The business has 60 years of experience developing engines for missiles used by 17 armed forces, including the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps.
Across its broader U.S. operations, Safran employs more than 11,000 people at 71 sites in 25 states. Its customers include major U.S. airlines, aerospace prime contractors and the federal government.
