SNPE Matériaux Energétiques: Propulsion

Strategic propulsion

No ballistic or cruise missile could fully participate in deterrence without propulsion control. SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques know-how is unique in Europe and represents an essential asset for strategic solid propulsion. With 50 years of continuous political will, SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques participates in the development, production and support of French strategic missile propulsion. These activities are conducted in partnership with Snecma Propulsion Solide within the economic interest group G2P.

Missions and skills

At the heart of the French deterrence Force, operational missions ensured by these missiles imply immediate availability assurance.

Reliability, safety, performance, cost and environment control are skills that only SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques can mobilize to provide solid propellant charges at top international level:

Reliability: respect of performance, operating safety, immediate availability, minimal maintenance during operational life.
Safety: maximal throughout service life and during the different operating phases.
Performance: higher performance in terms of range and accuracy through research and development activities on new-generation energetic materials.
Cost control: development and serialization of missile M51 warheads manufactured in the frame of a fixed price contract with the DGA (French Armament Procurement Agency).
Environment control: development of innovative technologies to enable the dismantling of missile M45 warheads subject to equipment return.

Other products

SNPE Matériaux Énergétiques also designs, develops and produces charges for gas generators ensuring various functions in deterrence systems (release, ejection, ignition, separation, etc.)

Contact: Gilles Fonblanc