Safran accelerates U.S. growth with strategic expansion of turbojet engine production for missiles and drones

Safran Power Units announces an investment to double the capacity of its Grand Prairie, Texas, facility, which produces turbojet engines for missiles and drones. This expansion marks the latest chapter in the company's longstanding commitment to the U.S. defense sector and addresses the surging demand for equipment, including the TR40 engine family, which equips the Naval Strike Missile, and which will be assembled in the facility. This additional capacity will come onstream in 2028 and Safran is ready to expand further its capacities in the country to support the increasing needs of the U.S. Defense industry.

Olivier Andriès CEO of Safran commented: "This increase in capacity demonstrates Safran's deep-rooted partnership with the United States and our dedication as a trusted supplier to the American defense sector. By investing in advanced technologies and local talent, we are strengthening the resilience of critical supply chains. Demand for our TR40 turbojet engine family has quadrupled in recent years and we see significant opportunities for future applications. By launching a new assembly line at our Texas site, we are meeting the accelerating demand of our strategic customers."

The TR40 family is recognized as the benchmark turbojet engine in its class for anti-ship missile applications. Specifically designed to meet the demanding requirements of this market, this proven engine solution stands out for its exceptional compactness and outstanding thrust-to-weight ratio, which give significant integration advantages. With over 20 years of commercial and operational success and more than 1,200 units delivered worldwide, the TR40 has become Safran Power Units' best-selling engine. Its unrivaled reliability confirms its status as a trusted solution for critical missions. Produced at scale to equip new-generation high-performance munitions, the TR40 represents the gold standard in tactical propulsion.

With 60 years of expertise in high-performance engines powering missiles that are in service with 17 armed forces including the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps, Safran Power Units has established itself as a trusted, sovereign industrial partner for the U.S. defense sector. Based in Texas since 1989, Safran Power Units is already providing locally assembled engines for Kratos BQM-167 and BQM-177 aerial targets. The company also equips the T-45 Goshawk jet trainer, with its auxiliary power units.

Safran is a strategic partner in both the U.S. civil aerospace and defense sectors, with growth driven by its commitment to skilled job creation, advanced manufacturing, innovation and skills development. The Group has a long-standing and growing industrial presence in the country with more than 11,000 employees spread across 71 sites in 25 states. Serving as a key partner to every major U.S. airline, along with the leading aerospace prime contractors, and the U.S. Government, Safran plays a vital role in supporting America's aerospace and defense leadership.