BAE Systems Bofors is dedicated to enhancing defense capabilities in Sweden and our partner nations worldwide. We achieve this by developing, producing, and selling the world's most advanced defense materials. BAE Systems Bofors operates throughout Sweden's defense policy security belt and employs approximately 650 staff members in Karlstad, Karlskoga, and Ă–rebro. The company is part of one of the world's largest defense industrial groups, BAE Systems, which has over 100,000 employees. This provides us with unique opportunities to combine our long tradition of local expertise with world-leading international experience.
Thesis Project at BAE Systems Bofors AB
Would you like to combine simulation, experimentation, and defense technology in your thesis project?
At BAE Systems Bofors, we offer exciting thesis projects where you will have the opportunity to work with advanced simulations, experimental testing, and contribute to the development of future defense systems.
As a thesis student at BAE Systems Bofors, you will be part of a culture characterized by collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing. Your voice is important, and new ideas are encouraged. You will gain concrete insight into what it is like to work as an analysis engineer and have the opportunity to contribute to the development of real products and solutions.
The work is conducted in close collaboration with experienced engineers and experts, and you will have access to modern analytical equipment in a dynamic environment where both practical and theoretical work are central. For those interested in a future as an analysis engineer, this is an excellent opportunity to gain insight into the profession and develop relevant skills. We have a continuous recruitment need in this area and view thesis projects as a natural and important pathway to future employment—many of our former thesis students are now part of our team.
About the Thesis Project:
From Propellant Geometry to Loadability – Modeling & Simulation of Bulk Density in Cartridges
Background
Interior ballistics encompasses essentially everything that happens in the cannon from the ignition of the propellant to the projectile leaving the muzzle of the gun. A significant part of interior ballistics deals with the burning characteristics of the propellant and the determination of charge weights. The geometry of the propellant varies and affects not only the burning process but also the bulk density, i.e., how well the propellant packs in the cartridges. In this thesis project, you will combine experimentation and simulation to develop a method that can be used as support in future work on charge weight firings and development work. The method will primarily be utilized for ammunition for BOFORS 40 mm and 57 mm guns.
Objective
The aim of this thesis project is to develop a simulation method to predict bulk density in cartridges based on the geometric properties of the propellant. Through numerical calculations and simulation models, you will analyze how different propellant shapes—such as spherical, cylindrical, rosette, and leaf propellant—pack in the cartridge. Each manufactured batch of propellant has variations that impact performance and need to be tested; the bulk density of the propellant is a crucial parameter for loadability.
The method should be easy to use for geometric variations and will also be tested in different software environments to identify which tool best solves the task. An advanced component of the project includes investigating how surface structure and surface treatment of the propellant, as well as the interior of the cartridge wall, affect bulk density.
What You Will Do:
- Model different propellant geometries in a software environment.
- Conduct packing experiments in known cartridges.
- Perform simulation tests in programs such as Blender, ANSYS Rocky, and Impetus.
- Compare results between different software environments.
- Study how variations in geometry affect bulk density within the same batch.
- Investigate how surface structure influences bulk density.
You Will Have the Opportunity to:
- Work on a real technical problem within the defense industry.
- Contribute to the development of future simulation tools.
- Receive guidance from experts in interior ballistics.
Prerequisites
We are looking for engineering students in materials, technical physics, chemistry, or equivalent fields. You should have an interest in physics, simulation, and materials technology. Experience with CAD, particle simulation, and any of the mentioned software is a plus but not a requirement. Do you have the right drive and interest but lack certain programming experience? Don’t hesitate to apply—we highly value learning and curiosity.
Practical Information:
- Scope: Approximately 20 weeks (Master's thesis)
- Start: Spring 2026
- Location: Karlskoga/Karlstad
Would you like to know more about the thesis project?
Contact Andreas Hörberg: mailto:
[email protected]
If you are ready to take the next step in your career, we welcome you to submit your application with a CV and cover letter to BAE Systems Bofors by December 1, 2025, and become part of an innovative team that makes a difference!
We warmly welcome your application!