Space and missile propulsion

Thema:: Integrated combat capabilities

13 October 2026

Do you need more range, faster response, safer propellants or a propulsion concept that has not yet been proved? Future defence and space systems depend on technologies that must perform under demanding conditions, meet strict safety and qualification requirements, and still be ready in time for the next programme decision.

When propulsion is the limiting factor

That raises practical questions. Which propellant concept is feasible? How will the system behave during firing, storage or transport? Which tests are needed to qualify a new design? And how do you reduce technical risk before committing to the next development step?

With specialist knowledge in energetic materials, propulsion design, modelling, testing and safety, TNO helps you turn these questions into evidence-based choices.

What do you need to prove?

Solid rocket motors, ramjet propulsion, gas generators, ignition systems and thrust vector control all influence what a system can ultimately deliver.

New formulations, green propulsion concepts and hydrogen peroxide-based systems can create opportunities, but they also raise questions about stability, compatibility, storage, handling and qualification.

Modelling, formulation, processing, testing and qualification support help turn assumptions into measurable evidence.

Questions across the propulsion chain

A propulsion challenge is rarely about one component only. Performance, safety, manufacturability, regulation and integration all influence each other. That is why early insight matters: it helps you choose the right concept, test the right parameters and avoid costly redesign later in the programme.

Which solid rocket motor or advanced propellant concept fits the mission profile?
Could solid fuel ramjet or air-breathing propulsion extend range or efficiency?
Which green or alternative propulsion option supports future space mission requirements?
How reliable are the gas generator, ignition system or energetic device under realistic conditions?
Could rotating detonation engine research open a route to higher efficiency?
Can additive manufacturing of energetic materials enable geometries that are difficult to make today?

Answering these questions requires a combination of material insight, process knowledge, test facilities and safety expertise. TNO brings these disciplines together for propellant processing, chemical and material characterisation, environmental testing, rocket motor testing, ramjet testing, igniter development, qualification support and risk assessment.

From uncertainty to evidence

When a propulsion concept is new, the key question is not only whether it can work, but whether it can be manufactured, tested, qualified and used safely. Evidence from modelling, laboratory research and firing tests helps determine which route is technically and practically viable.

TNO has supported defence and space customers for more than forty years. This experience includes European launch systems, planetary exploration technologies, green propulsion developments, ramjet research, cool gas generator technology and advanced energetic material manufacturing.

For programme teams, that means a clearer view of what is feasible, what still needs to be proved and which risks should be addressed before the next investment, consortium or qualification decision.

Where is your propulsion challenge?

Missile and defence systems

Do you need greater range, faster response or more mission flexibility? Propulsion choices for missile systems, artillery concepts and high-speed interceptors affect performance, safety, manufacturability and qualification from the start.

Insight into solid rocket motors, ramjet propulsion, advanced propellants, ignition systems, gas generators and thrust vector control helps identify which technical choices are realistic and which risks require further testing.

Space propulsion and tailored energetics

Are you developing a launch, satellite or mission-specific propulsion system? Green propulsion, hydrogen peroxide-based systems, energetic devices, gas generators and ignition technologies all require reliable data on performance, compatibility and safety.

Future propulsion concepts

Could a new propulsion architecture change what is possible? Rotating detonation engines, advanced ramjet concepts, cool gas generators and additive manufacturing of energetic materials offer promising directions, but each requires careful validation before it can move towards application.

What working with TNO helps you clarify

Which concept is most promising for your mission or application?
Which material, process or design risks need to be understood first?
Which tests are needed for qualification, certification or programme decisions?
How can a concept move from feasibility study to demonstrator or firing test?
Which partners, facilities or European programmes could support the next step?

Start with the question behind the technology

Whether you are preparing a new missile programme, developing a satellite propulsion system, exploring an energetic formulation or building a European R&D consortium, the first step is to define what needs to be proved.