Saab Chooses Anduril for Rocket Motors: Pioneering Ground-Launched Bomb Technology

Saab has chosen the up-and-coming Anduril Rocket Motor Systems to develop and manufacture solid rocket motors for its Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb, as stated by representatives from both firms.

This decision marks a significant boost for Anduril’s ambitions to become a key player among solid rocket motor suppliers in the United States, a market currently dominated by only two major companies.

The increasing demand for ammunition production in the U.S., especially to fulfill future requirements and replenish supplies sent to Ukraine, has led to more entities entering this niche sector.

The partnership aims to enhance Saab’s strategic position within the U.S. and fosters collaboration with local partners. Brad Barnard, Vice President and General Manager of Land Systems at Saab’s U.S. subsidiary, expressed to Defense News the excitement about expanding their network of strategic partners in the United States, which aligns with their strategy for growth in capacity and capabilities.

Saab, in collaboration with Boeing since 2014, has been developing the GLSDB, a munition designed for precision and extensive coverage. Their efforts culminated in a demonstration in 2019, and in 2023, they secured a contract with the U.S. Air Force to support the U.S. European Command, Barnard revealed.

In pursuit of maintaining GLSDB’s relevance, the team prioritized finding a new rocket motor partner as a critical initial step. This move was aimed at transitioning away from the M26 MLRS solid rocket motor, which is no longer in production and was previously supplied by the government, he elaborated.

After a rigorous selection process for a new SRM, Anduril stood out, especially due to their proactive approach in technical solutions and adherence to delivery timelines, Barnard noted.

Both Anduril and Saab are actively expanding their manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. Saab is nearing the completion of a new production facility in Grayling, Michigan, expected to commence operations within a year, according to Barnard.

In 2023, Anduril acquired a solid rocket motor company and invested $75 million to establish a new production site on a 450-acre property in McHenry, Mississippi.

Neil Thurgood, Senior Vice President at Anduril overseeing the air and ground deterrence division, emphasized to Defense News the need for increased competition in the U.S. solid rocket motor market. Anduril aims to position itself as the third major provider in this sector, he stated.

Anduril plans to reach an annual production target of approximately 6,000 solid rocket motors. Thurgood mentioned that about 100 days after receiving initial certification, Anduril could escalate to full-rate production.

Thurgood expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Saab, highlighting Anduril’s readiness for rapid scaling thanks to innovative factory processes.

Anduril has committed to delivering an enhanced solid rocket motor design by 2026, focusing on safety, cost-effectiveness, and innovative manufacturing techniques to facilitate a smooth transition to mass production.

Thurgood explained the complexities of developing new solid rocket motors, noting that it involves more than just replicating existing designs—it requires precise adaptation and innovation.

Anduril’s team is fine-tuning the specific formulas for various munition sizes, ranging from 4.75-inch rockets for the U.S. Army to larger hypersonic rocket motors for the U.S. Navy’s STANDARD missile program, including the new GLSDB.

The company is implementing innovative manufacturing techniques like single-piece-flow manufacturing, a bladeless high-speed mixer, and other automated solutions to enhance production speed and quality, Thurgood added.

The facility’s modular design allows for the manufacture of different types of motors using the same production line and processes, marking a significant shift from traditional methods of solid rocket motor production, Thurgood pointed out. Once the specific propellant formula for the GLSDB is finalized, the team will proceed to testing and qualification phases for the SRM, with a comprehensive system-level test anticipated in the following year.