#United States #Arlington #Raytheon #Avio #solid rocket motor

Collaboration Between RTX's Raytheon and Avio

In a significant step towards advancing U.S. defense capabilities, Raytheon, a prominent segment of RTX (NYSE: RTX), has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Avio. This partnership aims to establish a cutting-edge solid rocket motor (SRM) facility in the United States that will serve Raytheon as well as its other clients, operating as a vertically integrated merchant supplier. The agreement marks a purposeful step forward in meeting the increasing demand for high-quality defense products.

The newly planned facility will not only ensure Raytheon has preferred access to a portion of Avio’s production output but also reflects ongoing collaboration between the two firms. This latest agreement builds on a contract from July 2024 wherein preliminary engineering work was initiated for the Mk 104 rocket motor, as well as a recent purchase order to facilitate Critical Design Review and expedite material qualification processes.

Bob Butz, the vice president of Operations, Supply Chain, and Quality at Raytheon, stated, "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." He emphasized that leveraging Avio's expertise in solid rocket motor propulsion development and manufacturing will greatly enhance Raytheon’s capability to deliver crucial weapon systems efficiently.

The establishment of the Avio facility is crucial in responding to the surging need for advanced solid rocket motors, thereby contributing to each company's success in the defense sector. Both Avio and Raytheon are steadfast in their commitment to ensure the effective execution of this initiative, which is vital for addressing the defense needs of the United States and its allied nations.

Expressing optimism about the partnership, Jim Syring, CEO of Avio USA and a retired Vice Admiral, commented, "We are proud to collaborate with Raytheon for their future production capacity at our new factory. We aim to leverage the extensive experience of our parent company, Avio S.p.A., to establish our presence in the U.S. as a reliable vertically integrated merchant supplier."

About Raytheon

Raytheon has been a key player in delivering comprehensive defense solutions, aiding the U.S. government, allies, and partners in securing their national interests for over a century. They specialize in various areas such as integrated air and missile defense systems, smart weapon technologies, advanced sensors and radar systems, space-based technologies, hypersonics, and missile defense systems across multiple domains including land, air, sea, and space.

About RTX

RTX is recognized as the largest aerospace and defense entity globally, employing over 185,000 people worldwide. The company is committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and science, redefining connections and protections in the world. By integrating industry-leading businesses such as Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, RTX actively works toward advancing aviation and ensuring operational success in defense. With a robust revenue of over $80 billion in 2024, RTX’s headquarters is situated in Arlington, Virginia.

About Avio

Avio is a renowned international entity focused on the manufacture and development of space launchers and various propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, and cryogenic technologies. Over its extensive fifty-year history, Avio has positioned itself at the forefront of the space launcher market and defense programs, employing over 1500 skilled personnel across locations in Italy, France, the United States, and French Guyana. The company plays a vital role in major European defense initiatives as the primary contractor for the Vega program and as a subcontractor for the Ariane program.

With Avio USA functioning as a subsidiary of Avio S.p.A. and complying with U.S. security and export control regulations, the CEO, Rear Admiral James Syring, is dedicated to steering the company within the robust defense landscape appropriate to U.S. needs.