Analysis & Reports

The Pentagon formalized a partnership with In-Q-Tel for technology scouting aimed at military applications. This collaboration will focus on six critical technology areas over the next 12 months, with the goal of moving validated commercial prototypes into operational evaluations. The partnership seeks to enhance the integration of commercial technology into military operations, signaling an agile approach to defense procurement.

The US Navy and Raytheon signed a $24.4 billion deal to accelerate the production of the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) in Washington. This five-year agreement aims to enhance manufacturing throughput and reduce costs, addressing the need to replenish critical munition stockpiles. The deal follows earlier contracts for other missile systems, indicating a broader effort to strengthen defense capabilities.

BAE Systems is upgrading the GPS in the U.S. Navy’s carrier landing system to the military’s encrypted, jam-resistant M-code signal under a $16 million contract. This upgrade will utilize the DIGAR-500M anti-jam receiver and enhance the Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS), which guides aircraft during landings in challenging conditions. The integration of M-code technology aims to improve operational safety and effectiveness for naval aviation.

The USS Connecticut, a Seawolf-class nuclear attack submarine, is undergoing extensive repairs at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard after being damaged in a 2021 collision. It is scheduled to return to service in summer 2024, with plans for retirement by 2031. The U.S. Navy is modernizing key systems on the submarine, which is one of its most advanced vessels.

DARPA has contracted Systems Planning and Analysis for $10.9 million to manage its biotechnology programs, focusing on integrating artificial intelligence into the work. The contract will run through October 2031 and will take place in Arlington, Virginia. This initiative is part of DARPA's ongoing efforts to enhance military technology through advanced research.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract worth up to $48.7 million to WindBorne Systems on Sept. 29, 2023, for the collection of atmospheric data using self-steering weather balloons. This contract will support military weather forecasting and mission planning, running until Sept. 30, 2033. WindBorne's balloons, which can remain airborne for weeks, will provide targeted vertical profiles of the atmosphere.

NASA is exploring the possibility of restoring the SR-71 Blackbird to flyable condition at Edwards Air Force Base. This initiative faces significant challenges, including the destruction of spare parts and the need for specialized equipment and expertise. The restoration is complicated by the aircraft's unique design and high operational costs, raising questions about its practicality compared to modern alternatives.

RTX’s Raytheon unit secured a $24.4 billion multiyear contract to produce Standard Missile-6 interceptors for the U.S. Navy, aimed at replenishing munitions stockpiles. This contract, awarded on Thursday, is part of the Pentagon's efforts to enhance weapons production amid rising demand. The SM-6 missile is capable of both offensive and defensive operations.

The Pentagon obligated approximately $142 billion from the reconciliation funding in Washington, leaving about 7% of the total amount at risk of cuts due to sequestration. The reconciliation bill, which included around $152 billion for defense spending, aimed to support military modernization efforts. Defense officials confirmed that only 93% of the funds were obligated ahead of the fiscal year 2027 deadline.

The U.S. Air Force developed JP-7 fuel for the SR-71 Blackbird to prevent ignition at high speeds. This specialized fuel has a flash point of 140 degrees Fahrenheit and requires unique handling procedures. Additionally, 56 Stratotankers were modified to exclusively transport JP-7 fuel for the aircraft's operational needs.

Overview Energy has been contracted by the Pentagon's Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund to demonstrate technology for beaming solar energy from space to Earth. The contract involves designing a homing beacon for a satellite-based solar energy system, which is intended to enhance power delivery to remote military locations. The demonstration is scheduled for early next year, reflecting ongoing Defense Department interest in space-based solar power solutions.

Celebrity chef Robert Irvine is working to provide healthier grab-and-go food options for bomber pilots and crews at Barksdale Air Force Base. This initiative aims to address the lack of food availability for airmen on the flight line, where current options are limited to processed snacks. Irvine's team plans to implement these changes before Christmas 2023, collaborating with the Army to improve dining facilities for military personnel.

NASA is attempting to return the SR-71A Blackbird to flight status after it was removed from display at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The aircraft, which has been on display since 1999, faces significant restoration challenges due to its age and the disposal of spare parts. NASA is looking for retired personnel familiar with the aircraft to assist in the effort.

DARPA is soliciting industry input to develop a new hypersonic cruise missile that surpasses existing designs in range, speed, and altitude. The request for information was issued on September 30, 2023, with responses due by November 6, 2023. The agency seeks innovative concepts and technologies to facilitate rapid production and effective testing of the missile.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $197 million contract to British-owned MSI Defence Systems for 30mm deck gun mounts and electro-optical sights to enhance its capabilities against drones and fast attack boats. Deliveries are expected to be completed by January 2031, with significant work taking place in Norfolk, England. The new system will replace the older 25 mm MK 38 MOD 3 on U.S. Navy ships.

The U.S. Marine Corps ordered 32 ACV-R armored recovery vehicles from BAE Systems for $230.1 million on October 1, 2023. These vehicles will support battlefield recovery and maintenance of other ACVs, with production expected to finish by November 2028. The ACV-R is the last variant in the ACV family, designed to replace older recovery models.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a $146.7 million contract to BAE Systems for 40 electronic warfare kits for the F-15EX, with work to be completed in Nashua, New Hampshire, by August 31, 2030. This contract includes the Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), which enhances the aircraft's self-protection against radar and missile threats. The U.S. Air Force has committed $58.8 million in fiscal 2025 and 2026 for this procurement.

The U.S. Department of War ordered 14,000 attack drones and 800 additional drones from Neros on September 30, 2023, following the company's success in the Pentagon's Drone Dominance competition. Neros's orders are part of a larger initiative to procure 60,000 drones, with the company being a leading supplier in this effort. The total value of the orders is reported to exceed $100 million, reflecting the growing demand for advanced drone technology in military operations.

The Pentagon announced the creation of the Autonomous Warfare Command (AUTOWARCOM) to lead the development of robotic weapons by October 1, 2027. This initiative includes increasing munitions stockpiles and establishing a new military base for integrated defense operations. Additionally, Project Meridian will be formed to explore future military capabilities, led by notable defense contractors.

The U.S. Navy plans to purchase 30 medium-sized unmanned surface vessels from three companies, with deliveries expected in the last quarter of 2027. Each company will build 10 vessels, and six out of seven companies successfully completed sea trials for the program's first phase. Phase 2 testing is set to begin on November 16, with broader requirements that may involve collaboration with other military services.