This week’s Manufacturing Minute highlights groundbreaking advancements from our CMTA members, showcasing their commitment to innovation. Manufacturing Minute is powered by Tri Tool Technologies.

Boeing Subsidiary to Spearhead Space Defense Satellites 

Courtesy of Millennium Space Systems

CMTA Board member Boeing has announced a significant milestone with its subsidiary, Millennium Space Systems, securing a $413 million contract from the Space Development Agency (SDA). This contract will aid Millennium in the development of the Fire-control On Orbit-support-to-the-war Fighter (FOO Fighter) system, a constellation of satellites designed to provide fire-control quality sensing against emerging threats. This advanced system will deliver high-fidelity data for tracking and targeting, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of missile defense systems and reinforcing Boeing’s role in advancing national security capabilities.  

Stratolaunch’s Roc Carrier Plane’s New Flight Capabilities 

Courtesy of Stratolaunch

Another exciting development, CMTA member Stratolaunch, has successfully completed a series of flight tests for Roc, the world’s largest flying aircraft and the company’s primary air-launch platform. Conducted from mid-May to mid-June, these flights culminated in achieving a new operational altitude of 35,000 feet and a speed of Mach 0.63. These tests are crucial for optimizing future Talon-A mission operations, aiming for sustained hypersonic flight. Earlier this year, Stratolaunch completed its first successful powered flight of the Talon-A1 (TA-1) vehicle, reaching high supersonic speeds approaching Mach 5. By enhancing Roc’s operational altitude, Stratolaunch is set to achieve higher speeds and extended time on condition for Talon-A, marking a significant leap in hypersonic flight capabilities.

Takeda’s $230 Million Manufacturing Expansion 

Courtesy of Takeda

Lastly, CMTA member Takeda has announced a major expansion of its plasma-derived therapies (PDT) production capacity at its Los Angeles site. This expansion, one of Takeda’s largest single investments in manufacturing capacity, underscores the company’s dedication to better-serving patients and fostering sustainable growth within the local community. The $230 million investment will significantly increase the site’s production capacity, making it Takeda’s largest fractionation site globally. Additionally, this project will create over 125 new positions, further bolstering the local economy and demonstrating Takeda’s commitment to innovation and community development. 

Stay up to date with all manufacturing news by following CMTA on social media.