Moog and Niron Magnetics to Showcase Rare-Earth-Free Motor Technology at AUSA 2026

Moog Inc. and Niron Magnetics are set to showcase their collaborative efforts on rare-earth-free motor technology, utilizing iron nitride magnets, at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition. The companies aim to strengthen the U.S. domestic defense industrial base by presenting solutions for land vehicle and missile actuators.

The joint exhibit highlights Moog's testing and qualification of Niron Magnetics' iron nitride permanent magnets. These magnets are being integrated into electromechanical actuators, which convert electrical signals into precise mechanical motion. By eliminating rare-earth elements, the companies intend to reduce the U.S. defense industrial base's reliance on foreign-controlled critical mineral supply chains.

"The Army is transforming quickly, and the systems soldiers rely on can only move as fast as the supply chains behind them," said Ryan Aures, Moog Land and Sea Systems Engineering Director. "Our work with Niron is about making sure a disruption never stands between the warfighter and the capability they need." Jonathan Rowntree, CEO of Niron Magnetics, emphasized that rare-earth magnets are present in nearly all defense systems, with current supply dominated by a single foreign source.

The AUSA 2026 theme, "America's Army: The Foundation of the Joint Force," aligns with this initiative. The Moog-Niron collaboration supports the Department of Defense's acquisition transformation strategy, which promotes drawing solutions from a broader industrial base using domestically produced, commercially available technologies.

At Moog's Booth #1947, attendees can view iron nitride magnets integrated into tested motor hardware and discuss program integration and supply availability with engineers. Niron's iron nitride technology eliminates the need for rare-earth materials, supporting efforts to onshore critical mineral supply chains.