On April 16, 2025, a powerful explosion thundered at the test site of the American defense company Northrop Grumman in Utah, completely destroying one of the buildings of the complex. This was reported by the Associated Press, citing local authorities. The incident occurred at 7:38 a.m. local time in a remote area of ​​Promontory, known as the "Rocket Ranch", where the company produces and tests solid-fuel rocket engines for military and space programs. According to preliminary data from the Box Elder County Sheriff's Department, there are no victims or injuries, and emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, recording a thick column of black smoke over the destroyed facility. The exact function of the building and the cause of the explosion remain unknown, the investigation is in its early stages. Northrop Grumman, one of the Pentagon's largest contractors, has not yet issued an official statement, and the public is advised to avoid the area of ​​​​the incident.

Promontory, 32 miles from Brigham City, is a key center for the development and testing of missile technology. The plant plays a major role in producing engines for intercontinental ballistic missiles, including the Sentinel, and space programs such as Artemis. The explosion has raised concerns about the potential risks to strategically important projects, although officials have said there is no threat to the public due to the remoteness of the facility. The investigation is complicated by the secrecy surrounding Northrop Grumman, whose work often involves classified military technology.

According to the Daily Mail, the explosion left the building in ruins, with footage from the scene showing charred debris and smoke filling the area. The source clarified that the destroyed structure was likely not used to mix chemicals for rocket fuel, reducing the risk of environmental damage. KSL.com reports that the company is aggressively expanding production, building new buildings and upgrading older ones to increase engine output by 2030, making the incident potentially significant for its plans. Northrop Grumman has previously said it is implementing innovative technologies, including 3D printing of components and new types of fuel, which SpaceNews says cuts development time by 75%.