The US Navy has entered into a significant partnership with X-Bow Systems, awarding the New Mexico-based firm a series of contracts valued at $60 million. This initiative aims to bolster the energetics industrial base, addressing the increasing demand for solid rocket motors. The contracts are part of a comprehensive 15-year modernization plan for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division, which oversees the development and production of various energetics, including explosives, propellants, and related chemicals essential to propulsion and ordnance.

This ambitious modernization effort is projected to require $2.7 billion, focusing on expanding and enhancing the nation’s manufacturing capabilities in the energetics sector. Jason Hundley, CEO of X-Bow Systems, emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong organic industrial base to ensure that warfighters are well-prepared for any scenario. “Our work to help modernize NSWC Indian Head will increase production capacity of solid rocket motors and other energetics systems to meet the growing needs of the US military,” he stated.

Positioned as a non-traditional producer of advanced solid rocket motors and defense technologies, X-Bow Systems plays a crucial role in this endeavor. Solid rocket motors, which provide propulsion for missiles, space launch vehicles, and various military applications, are central to the modernization initiative.

Under the first phase of the contract, X-Bow will focus on developing and procuring long-lead equipment necessary for the modernization and automation of key capabilities at the Indian Head Division, particularly in inert preparation facilities. As Phillip J. Cole, Energetics Manufacturing Department Head at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division, remarked, partnerships with companies like X-Bow are essential in revitalizing and strengthening the nation’s munitions industrial base, highlighting the collaborative effort needed to ensure military readiness.