Lockheed plans further solid rocket motor investment in Europe and Middle East
A PAC-3 MSE features a two-pulse solid rocket motor. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
Lockheed Martin’s plans for further investment in solid rocket motor (SRM) production across Europe and the Middle East are ongoing, the company’s president of missiles and fires, Tim Cahill, has confirmed.
Speaking to Shephard last week during the Dubai Airshow, Cahill said that expansion was on the horizon to meet a “huge” volume of worldwide demand for its missile portfolio amid rising global conflict and tensions.
Although he declined to name companies, Cahill said: “We’re looking at a number of companies…within Poland and within Germany that might support the production lines in those countries as well. [We are] also looking at
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
May drone digest: American loitering munition spending continues to drive market growth
Loitering munition procurement has accelerated throughout May 2026 as militaries continue to prioritise the capability. The US has led this activity by advancing swarm-drone concepts, downselecting more drones for the Army’s LASSO programme, and awarding procurement contracts for various systems.
-
Air forces review: Combat aircraft missile milestones hit as tanker and transport orders climb
As countries look to improve their combat aircraft capabilities, May has highlighted strong demand from European countries for aerial refuelling platforms as industry pushes forward next-generation missile test updates for eventual UK combat aircraft integration.
-
Will amphibious aircraft developers’ ambitions for maritime defence missions hold water?
Despite efforts to develop amphibious craft for future maritime operations, there is ongoing speculation on how operationally useful or core they will be, as countries globally – even with spending boosts – find their budgets constrained by competing and more important resource demands.
-
How defence sovereignty is driving middle power jet programmes
While moving away from US-made equipment towards home-grown options is a rising preference for some countries, there are multiple hurdles to overcome to compete with the US’s expansive global footprint and dominance.
-
Peru’s air combat modernisation effort opens up $2.5 billion market opportunity
The latest purchase of F-16V combat aircraft comes as the country presses ahead with its long-held plans to modernise its air combat capabilities and invest in the replacement of ageing Russian aircraft.
-
Optimism remains for GCAP and FCAS future despite programme stumbling blocks
Both sixth-generation combat aircraft programmes are still awaiting major key decisions from respective governments with regards to funding or future direction, but industry and governmental officials remain optimistic of progress going forward.