Solid Rocket Motor Market Size & Outlook, 2026-2034

Solid Rocket Motor Market Overview

The global solid rocket motor market size was valued at USD 6.22 billion in 2025 and is estimated to reach USD 12.75 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 8.43% during the forecast period (2026–2034). The market is driven by rising defense modernization programs, increasing demand for space launch vehicles, advancements in propellant technology, growing military expenditures, and the focus on lightweight, high-thrust propulsion systems for missiles and aerospace applications.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• North America held the largest market share, over 40% of the global market.
• Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, with a CAGR of 10.52%.
• By Platform, the segment held the highest market share of over %.
• By Stage, the segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of %.
• By Component, the segment held the highest market share of over %.
• By End User, the segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of %.
• The U.S. solid rocket motor market was valued at USD 2.08 billion in 2024 and reached USD 2.26 billion in 2025.

Graph: The U.S. Market Revenue Forecast (2023 – 2034)

Source: Straits Research

Market Size & Forecast

• 2025 Market Size: USD22 billion
• 2034 Projected Market Size: USD 12.75 billion
• CAGR (2026-2034): 43%
• Dominating Region: North America
• Fastest-Growing Region: Asia-Pacific

Solid rocket motors (SRMs) are self-contained propulsion units that burn a solid propellant grain inside a reinforced casing, producing thrust through a shaped nozzle and ignition system. They deliver high instantaneous thrust, long shelf life, and rapid launch readiness with minimal preflight complexity. SRMs are used in tactical missiles, artillery rockets, sounding rockets, launch vehicle strap‑on boosters, escape systems, and satellite kick stages. Benefits include robustness and low maintenance; limitations include limited throttleability, non‑reusability, and environmental concerns from exhaust products.

The market is primarily driven by geopolitical tensions and defense modernization programs, prompting increased procurement of missiles and interceptors that rely on SRMs. Domestic industrialization policies and procurement guarantees stimulate supplier investment and capacity expansion. Opportunities include retrofitting legacy missiles, scaling automated manufacturing, and expanding export markets for reliable, low‑cost propulsion. Moreover, growth in missile defense, tactical rocket systems, and commercial small‑launch segments creates niche demand for standardized solid boosters, aftermarket maintenance, localized production partnerships, and supplier consolidation, attracting strategic investment.

Latest Market Trends

Increasing Adoption of Hybrid Propulsion Systems

The global solid rocket motor market is witnessing a steady shift toward hybrid propulsion systems that combine the reliability of solid propellants with the controllability of liquid fuels. This integration enhances performance efficiency, thrust modulation, and mission flexibility, making hybrid systems increasingly attractive for both defense and space applications.

Moreover, advancements in material engineering and 3D manufacturing are helping reduce production costs while improving design precision. As governments and private players invest in next-gen launch vehicles and tactical missiles, hybrid propulsion systems are expected to play a vital role in meeting the demand for faster, safer, and sustainable propulsion solutions.

Focus on Green Propellants and Smokeless Formulations

Environmental concerns and stricter regulations are driving the solid rocket motor industry toward the development of green propellants and smokeless formulations. These innovations reduce harmful emissions, improve safety during storage and handling, and offer comparable performance to traditional propellants, making them increasingly preferred in both defense and space sectors.

Manufacturers are investing heavily in eco-friendly alternatives that meet global sustainability standards without compromising thrust or reliability. Growing awareness about environmental impact, combined with government incentives for cleaner technologies, is encouraging wider adoption of these advanced propellants, positioning them as a key trend shaping the future of solid rocket motors.

To get more insights about this report Download Free Sample Report

Solid Rocket Motor Market Drivers

Continuous Ongoing Space Exploration Programs

Governments and private players are investing heavily in developing advanced propulsion systems that ensure mission reliability, high thrust, and cost efficiency. Solid rocket motors remain a preferred choice due to their simplicity, reliability, and ability to deliver rapid acceleration for both crewed and uncrewed missions.

• For instance, in August 2025, Northrop Grumman's GEM 63XL boosters were instrumental in the successful inaugural flight of United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket, marking a milestone in national security space launch capabilities.
• Similarly, NASA's Artemis 2 mission utilized twin SRBs in its Space Launch System, providing over 75% of liftoff thrust and propelling the Orion spacecraft beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

These developments highlight the critical role of solid propulsion in modern space programs, driving ongoing demand and technological innovation in the market.

Market Restraints

High Development and Manufacturing Costs

One of the key restraints in the solid rocket motor market is the high development and manufacturing costs. Advanced materials, precision engineering, and rigorous testing protocols significantly increase production expenses. Moreover, incorporating modern safety features and meeting stringent quality standards further elevates costs.

These financial challenges can limit adoption, particularly for emerging manufacturers and smaller aerospace firms. As a result, market growth may be constrained, with expansion largely dependent on government funding, defense contracts, and large-scale commercial programs that can absorb the substantial investment required for production and innovation.

Market Opportunities

Technological Improvements Enabling High-Thrust, Short-Burn Motors

Technological advances in solid rocket motor design are creating clear market opportunities by enabling compact, high-thrust, short-burn motors that meet modern tactical and space-launch requirements. These motors offer rapid energy release, precise impulse shaping, and reduced structural mass, making them ideal for air-to-air missiles, interceptor systems, and auxiliary boosters for small launch vehicles.

• For instance, in October 2025, Anduril Industries and Raytheon successfully conducted a static fire test of a Highly Loaded Grain (HLG) solid rocket motor designed for air-to-air missiles. This advancement allows for extended range and customized thrust profiles within the same motor size, enhancing missile performance without increasing physical dimensions.

These developments promise faster fielding of next-generation weapons and open commercial prospects in small-satellite launch and hypersonic-support stages.

Regional Analysis

North America is dominant with a market share of over 40%, driven by extensive defense modernization programs and rising investments in space exploration. Strong collaborations between defense contractors, space agencies, and private aerospace firms are boosting regional capabilities. Advancements in missile propulsion, reusable boosters, and tactical rocketry are expanding market applications. The growing demand for satellite launches and high-thrust propulsion systems further strengthens North America’s leadership in the global solid rocket motor market, supported by robust funding and cutting-edge technological infrastructure.

• The United States solid rocket motor market is driven by established players like Northrop Grumman, Aerojet Rocketdyne, and SpaceX, who are advancing propulsion technologies for both defense and space sectors. Companies are focusing on higher thrust efficiency, improved burn rates, and reusable motor systems. Extensive R&D is underway to enhance missile range and space launch vehicle performance, reinforcing the nation’s leadership in propulsion innovation and defense readiness.
• Canada’s solid rocket motor market is evolving with increased investments in aerospace propulsion, satellite launch technologies, and missile system components. Firms such as Magellan Aerospace and small propulsion startups are developing hybrid solid propulsion systems, emphasizing cost efficiency and environmental sustainability. Ongoing collaborations with North American defense and space programs are fostering innovation, with a growing emphasis on lightweight materials.

Asia-Pacific Market Insights

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, with a CAGR of 10.52%, supported by rapid defense industrialization, expanding space programs, and increased military spending. Governments are investing heavily in missile technology, tactical defense systems, and indigenous rocket propulsion capabilities. collaborations between research institutes and private firms are accelerating advancements in propulsion design and manufacturing efficiency. The surge in satellite launch activities and national security initiatives is propelling Asia-Pacific’s position as a key emerging hub in the global solid rocket motor market.

• China’s solid rocket motor market is expanding through major defense and space programs led by companies like China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) and China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC). Ongoing efforts focus on optimizing propellant formulations, enhancing payload capacity, and improving safety standards to achieve global competitiveness in propulsion technology.
• India’s solid rocket motor market is gaining momentum through advancements by organizations like DRDO and ISRO, focusing on indigenous missile and space propulsion systems. Companies such as Solar Industries India Ltd. and Premier Explosives Ltd. are contributing to solid motor production, emphasizing eco-friendly propellants and improved thrust-to-weight ratios.

Source: Straits Research

Europe Market Insights

Europe’s solid rocket motor market is witnessing steady growth, supported by advanced aerospace infrastructure and cross-border defense collaborations. The region’s focus on independent launch capabilities and defense modernization is driving investments in next-generation propulsion systems. The European Space Agency (ESA) and regional manufacturers are jointly developing high-performance motors for small satellite launch vehicles and tactical missiles. With emphasis on reusability, sustainability, and high-energy-density propellants, Europe continues to strengthen its foothold.

• The UK solid rocket motor market is led by companies such as Nammo UK and Roxel, which are working on lightweight propulsion solutions for defense and aerospace applications. Moreover, growing collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and space sector partners is fostering advancements in hybrid propulsion and precision-engineered motor casings.

Latin America Market Insights

The Latin American solid rocket motor market is gradually gaining momentum, driven by increasing interest in satellite deployment, defense modernization, and academic research in rocketry. Governments are partnering with international aerospace firms to develop indigenous launch capabilities and tactical propulsion systems. The focus is on small payload rockets, solid boosters, and cost-efficient motor designs to support regional access to space. Growing public-private partnerships and regional collaborations are paving the way for steady market expansion across Latin America.

• Brazil’s solid rocket motor marketis evolving through initiatives by organizations such as the Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) and Avibras. These entities are developing small and medium-range propulsion systems for both military and civil applications. Recent projects emphasize performance testing of solid propellants and the creation of modular rocket systems to enhance local aerospace capabilities.

The Middle East and Africa Market Trends

The Middle East and Africa solid rocket motor market is expanding as countries invest in defense technology and regional missile development programs. Partnerships with global defense contractors are accelerating the adoption of advanced propulsion systems. The focus remains on short- and medium-range solid rocket motors tailored for national security and space exploration. Moreover, increasing R&D funding, along with the rise of domestic manufacturing capabilities, is positioning the region as a growing player in the global propulsion landscape.

• Saudi Arabia’s solid rocket motor market is advancing under defense diversification plans supported by the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI). The country is collaborating with international defense and aerospace manufacturers to develop indigenous propulsion technology. Efforts include solid motor testing, improved safety standards, and the integration of locally sourced materials for enhanced self-reliance.

Platform Insights

Missiles dominate the global solid rocket motor market, capturing over 45% share due to their extensive use in tactical, air defense, and strategic systems. These motors deliver high thrust and reliability, making them indispensable in modern defense programs. Nations are increasingly upgrading their missile arsenals with advanced solid propulsion systems to enhance range, accuracy, and combat readiness, strengthening this segment’s leading market position globally.

Space launch vehicles and boosters are the fastest-growing platform segment, registering a CAGR of 10.21%. The surge is driven by increasing satellite deployment, private space ventures, and government-funded exploration programs. Solid rocket boosters are preferred for their high energy output, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness, making them vital for both commercial and scientific missions. This growing demand continues to propel consistent innovation across the segment.

Source: Straits Research

Stage Insights

Single-stage solid rocket motors hold a dominant market share of over 55%, owing to their broad utilization in short-range missiles, testing vehicles, and sounding rockets. Their compact design and cost-efficiency make them ideal for defense applications requiring rapid deployment. The reliability of single-stage propulsion continues to position it as a preferred choice among defense manufacturers and research organizations worldwide.

Multi-stage is the fastest-growing segment with a CAGR of 8.93%. Increasing deployment of satellite launch vehicles and long-range strategic missiles fuels its expansion. Multi-stage motors offer improved payload delivery, enhanced altitude reach, and optimized fuel consumption. As global demand for complex missions rises, manufacturers are advancing stage separation and ignition sequencing technologies to ensure greater efficiency and precision.

Component Insights

Propellant dominates the component segment with over 50% market share, as it forms the performance core of every solid rocket motor. Innovations in composite propellant chemistry have enhanced thrust efficiency, safety, and storage stability. Defense and space organizations are investing heavily in propellant R&D to achieve higher burn rates and eco-friendly formulations, maintaining the segment’s strong leadership across global propulsion systems.

Motor casing and insulation represent the fastest-growing component segment, expanding at a CAGR of 9.72%. Demand is driven by the need for advanced thermal protection, lightweight materials, and structural integrity under extreme conditions. The adoption of carbon composites and ablative materials ensures optimal performance in reusable boosters and high-speed defense systems, supporting innovation and cost efficiency in modern rocket designs.

End User Insights

The defense sector remains the dominant end-user, accounting for over 45% of the market share. Solid rocket motors are essential for missile propulsion, air defense interceptors, and tactical weapons. Moreover, governments worldwide continue to modernize their defense capabilities through indigenous missile programs and cross-border collaborations, ensuring consistent procurement of solid propulsion systems to maintain national security and deterrence strength.

Space agencies are the fastest-growing end-user group, projected to record a CAGR of 10.73%. Rising satellite launches, planetary missions, and lunar exploration initiatives are driving solid motor adoption. Furthermore, major agencies such as NASA, ISRO, and ESA are investing in compact, high-thrust motors for cost-effective and sustainable launches. Their increasing focus on reusable launch systems and private partnerships accelerates long-term market growth.

Competitive Landscape

Leading companies focus on developing high-performance propulsion systems for defense and space applications. They are investing in advanced solid propellants, high-thrust, short-burn motors, and environmentally friendly formulations. Efforts also include scaling production capacity, enhancing quality control through automation, and supporting missile modernization programs. Moreover, research on lightweight casings, precision nozzles, and compact boosters aims to improve efficiency and expand applications across launch systems.

Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman was established in 1994 in Los Angeles, California, through the merger of Northrop Corporation and Grumman Corporation. It is a leading global aerospace and defense company specializing in aircraft, space systems, cybersecurity, and missile technologies. The company is heavily involved in developing advanced propulsion systems, including solid rocket motors, for military, space, and national security applications worldwide.

List of key players in Solid Rocket Motor Market

1. Northrop Grumman
2. L3Harris Technologies
3. Nammo AS
4. China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC)
5. IHI Corporation
6. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.
7. Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
8. Anduril Industries
9. United Launch Alliance (ULA)
10. Aerojet Rocketdyne
11. Lockheed Martin
12. General Dynamics
13. Raytheon Technologies
14. BAE Systems
15. MBDA
16. Avio S.p.A.
17. Roketsan
18. Avibras
19. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)
20. CASIC

To get more findings about this report Download Market Share

Strategic Initiatives

• October 2025 - Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics are expediting the development of solid rocket motors to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base. Their collaboration focuses on producing high-thrust, short-burn motors to meet the increasing demand for advanced missile systems.
• September 2025 - L3Harris Technologies secured a $292 million contract to continue producing solid rocket motors for the Javelin weapon system, marking the largest propulsion production contract in the program's history. This five-year extension underscores the critical role of Javelin in modern warfare, particularly in countering armored threats.
• May 2025 - Raytheon, part of RTX, granted contracts to Nammo and Northrop Grumman for preliminary work on developing the MK72 solid rocket motor. As part of these agreements, the companies will confirm design requirements and specifications and conduct a Systems Requirements Review to enhance and confirm the proposed design concepts.