Test of an X-Bow Systems additively manufactured solid propellant. Credit: X-Bow Systems

COLORADO SPRINGS — The Defense Department is directing investments towards a cadre of newer entrants in the solid rocket motors market.These bets on new suppliers come amid concerns about overreliance on a shrinking pool of domestic suppliers and a surge in demand for these solid rocket motors, a key component in hypersonic weapons, conventional and nuclear missiles.

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Sandra Erwin writes about military space programs, policy, technology and the industry that supports this sector. She has covered the military, the Pentagon, Congress and the defense industry for nearly two decades as editor of NDIA’s National Defense...