European defense company MBDA has completed the acquisition of Roxel, making it a wholly owned subsidiary by purchasing Safran’s 50 percent stake. According to MBDA, integrating Roxel’s specialized propulsion technologies will enhance its position in the defense sector.
Roxel was formed in 2003 through the merger of Celerg and Royal Ordnance Rocket Motors. The company designs, develops, manufactures and supplies solid propulsion systems and associated equipment for tactical and cruise missiles and rockets for air, naval and land forces. Its rocket motors are used in various missiles, including the EXOCET, ASTER and MAGIC families. The Franco-British company also designs and supplies pyromechanisms, gas generators and standardized motors for decoy systems, targets and drones.
MBDA CEO Éric Béranger welcomed Roxel to the MBDA Group, stating, “By reinforcing the work interactions and cooperation between the teams of the two companies, this transaction is to support Roxel’s operational and industrial excellence.”
According to MBDA, Roxel will continue to operate independently, fulfill its existing contracts with other suppliers and pursue new markets.
This latest expansion follows the missile manufacturer’s establishment of a new factory in Venette, France, in partnership with its subsidiary Matra Electronique, which specializes in high-tech electronic assemblies. MBDA said that the modern and modular site will significantly increase Matra Electronique’s production capacity for electronic components, supporting MBDA’s future programs and contributing to the growth of defense capabilities in Europe.