 To that extent the solid propellant is considered to have reached the end of its usefulness, although it will remain the principal propulsion method for at least the next decade until newer technologies mature.To improve on the capabilities of a solid propellant weapon the electrothermal-chemical gun may see production as early as 2016.ETC technology offers a medium-risk upgrade and is developed to the point that further improvements are so minor that it can be considered mature.