Analysis & Reports

Raytheon was awarded a $247.1 million contract to build and upgrade Phalanx close-in weapon systems for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army, covering production and overhauls through September 2030. The contract includes both shipboard and land-based systems, with significant funding allocated for the U.S. Army's Counter Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar defense. The Phalanx systems are designed to intercept missiles and other threats, demonstrating their effectiveness in recent combat scenarios.

The U.S. Navy has contracted Boeing for $16.7 million to plan the shutdown of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler production lines, with work running until November 2030. The contract includes inventory management of tools and equipment across St. Louis, El Segundo, and Bethpage. Final deliveries of Super Hornets are expected by spring 2027, while the F/A-XX is set to replace these aircraft in the 2030s.

The U.S. Navy ordered an additional $123.4 million worth of Lionfish underwater drones from HII on September 24, 2023. Most of the work will be conducted in Pocasset, Massachusetts, with completion expected by December 2027. The Lionfish, based on the REMUS 300 design, is intended for various military applications, including mine countermeasures and electronic warfare.

The U.S. Army awarded contracts worth $4.15 billion to 10 companies for counter-drone systems on September 28, 2023, at Detroit Arsenal, Michigan. The contracts include various equipment such as radars, cameras, and jammers, aimed at detecting and defeating hostile drones. The contracts will run through late September 2029, with only $50 million obligated so far.

Boeing was awarded a contract on September 29, 2025, to develop the F/A-XX sixth-generation carrier-based strike fighter for the U.S. Navy, valued at over $20 billion. This new jet will augment and eventually replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers starting in the 2030s. The contract includes the development of multiple test aircraft for various testing phases.

Mack Defense is showcasing a hybrid-electric heavy tractor at the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C., from October 12-14, 2023. This tractor is designed to replace the older M915 Line Haul Tractor and is part of the U.S. Army's modernization efforts for combat logistics. The vehicle incorporates advanced technologies, including a hybrid-electric system and drive-by-wire controls, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.

BAE Systems' new identification friend or foe system for the F-16 has been certified by the U.S. Department of War on September 29. The AN/APX-127(V)1 system will begin delivery of 90 units this year, enhancing the capabilities of U.S. Air Force fighters. This system integrates interrogator and transponder functions, meeting NATO standards and improving situational awareness for pilots.

The Pentagon awarded a $150 million contract to Israeli company Smart Shooter for SMASH rifle sights to enhance counter-drone capabilities. This contract, announced on September 29, 2023, supports the Joint Interagency Task Force 401's Domestic Shield Program, aimed at protecting U.S. forces and critical assets from drone threats. The SMASH system utilizes AI to assist soldiers in targeting small, fast-moving drones effectively.

DroneShield was awarded a three-year, USD$500 million contract to support the accelerated deployment of counter-UAS capabilities for U.S. homeland defense on 30 September in Warrenton, VA.

Boeing has been selected to design and build the U.S. Navy's sixth-generation fighter jet, the F/A-XX, with a contract exceeding $20 billion. The announcement was made by the U.S. Department of Defense on September 29, 2023. The F/A-XX is set to replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler, with deliveries expected to begin in the 2030s, enhancing the Navy's carrier strike capabilities.

The U.S. Army awarded 10 contracts worth $4.15 billion for counterdrone systems to disable unmanned aerial drones. This includes systems from seven companies, with a total ceiling of $7 billion for future contracts. The new procurement strategy aims to enhance flexibility and efficiency in acquiring military technology.

The U.S. Navy selected Boeing to develop the sixth-generation carrier-based fighter jet F/A-XX on September 29, 2023. The contract for the full-scale development phase exceeds $20 billion, with multiple aircraft to be procured for testing. The F/A-XX is anticipated to enter service in the 2030s, replacing the F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler.

The U.S. Navy will purchase 30 medium unmanned surface vessels (MUSVs) from three defense firms after successful at-sea testing. Each vessel is expected to cost around $40 million, with deliveries anticipated by the end of fiscal 2027. This procurement is part of the Navy's new MUSV marketplace initiative, aimed at streamlining acquisitions and enhancing operational capabilities.

Boeing has been awarded a $20 billion contract to develop the U.S. Navy's sixth-generation carrier-based strike fighter, the F/A-XX. This program aims to replace the aging fleet of F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlers by the 2030s, enhancing air superiority and operational capabilities. The F/A-XX will be interoperable with both manned and unmanned platforms, marking a significant advancement in naval aviation.

The U.S. Navy is grappling with significant challenges related to the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) program, particularly the Freedom-class variant, which is being retired due to high costs and maintenance issues. Admiral Michael Gilday suggested transferring surplus ships to South American nations for maritime patrols, but concerns remain about the feasibility and costs for those countries. Meanwhile, the Independence-class LCS continues to serve in mine-countermeasure roles in the Middle East.

Boeing has been selected to develop the F/A-XX sixth-generation strike fighter for the U.S. Navy, with a contract valued at over $20 billion. This decision secures Boeing's position as the sole supplier of sixth-generation fighters for the U.S., following its earlier win for the Air Force's F-47. The F/A-XX is expected to begin operations in the 2030s, enhancing the Navy's air capabilities.

The U.S. Army awarded multiple contracts worth up to $7 billion for counter-drone capabilities in Washington. This initiative is part of an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) vehicle aimed at enhancing the Pentagon’s drone and counter-drone marketplace. The contracts will support various counter-UAS requirements and aim to establish a layered defense against drone threats. Additionally, a memorandum was signed to improve information sharing on drone threats.

Robinson Unmanned is scaling production of SPIRIT FPV systems to 10,000 annually as part of the Pentagon's Drone Dominance program. The program tests the ability to produce reliable drones and integrate evolving technologies. The R66 TURBINETRUCK has been selected for the U.S. Marine Corps' logistics program, highlighting the importance of industrial capacity in military operations.

Raytheon was awarded a contract worth up to $20.7 billion for the production of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) in Washington. The multi-year deal includes orders for the US Air Force, Navy, and 16 international customers, and aims to replenish munitions depleted by conflicts. The contract is expected to nearly double AMRAAM production rates over the next five years.

The Pentagon awarded Raytheon a multiyear contract worth up to $20.7 billion on September 25, 2025, to nearly double the production of Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs). This contract is part of the Arsenal of Freedom campaign to enhance weapons production and includes joint procurement by the Air Force, Navy, and allies. Raytheon plans to significantly increase its output to meet rising demand from military and international customers.