Exclusive: Aeon and X-Bow collaborating on tactical missiles
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Defense firms Aeon Industrial and X-Bow Systems are teaming up to develop, test and make tactical missiles.
Why it matters: It's a pair of smaller defense-tech companies proactively working on problems — munitions production and solid-rocket motor diversity — plaguing the Pentagon.
- "It really represents a shift in how the defense industrial base needs to operate," Maureen Gannon, X-Bow's chief revenue officer, told Axios.
Driving the news: The companies inked a memorandum of understanding on the sidelines of the Fed Supernova event last month.
- This is the first time the arrangement has been publicized.
Zoom in: Aeon and X-Bow (pronounced crossbow) are collaborating on the former's Zeus, a system that packs an explosive punch against people, cover and armor.
- They are also exploring other "missile and munition designs" for joint development.
What they're saying: "Zeus represents the first major advance in tactical weapon systems in decades," Aeon CEO Naweed Tahmas told Axios. "We're proud to partner with X-Bow to expand its capability and ensure those on the front line can out-maneuver and win. Together, we will deliver true magazine depth."
- Of particular interest, he added, is arming "the thousands of manned and autonomous platforms coming online every day, from ground vehicles and surface vessels to drones."
Inside the room: Conversations between Aeon and X-Bow, both in Texas, kicked off months ago. The latter's energetics campus in Luling will play an important role in the relationship.
Zoom out: The companies made their own, separate headlines this year.
- Aeon was named to the Black Flag 100 list and announced work with the Army Applications Laboratory.
- X-Bow raised $105 million and was fast-tracked by Lockheed Martin as an independent supplier of solid-rocket motors and other services.
Go deeper: Tech's dance with the Pentagon speeds up
