Raytheon Secures $205 Million Contract From U.S. Navy for Phalanx Weapon System
Raytheon Secures $205 Million Contract for Phalanx Close-In Weapon System
In a recent development, Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has been awarded a substantial contract worth $205 million by the U.S. Navy. This agreement will focus on the ongoing production of the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), a crucial component for naval defense.
According to Barbara Borgonovi, the President of Naval Power at Raytheon, "Phalanx is our Navy's last line of defense, expertly designed to protect our sailors from the threats they face every day." This acknowledgment reflects the trust the U.S. Navy places in this vital system, which has proven to be indispensable in various combat scenarios.
The Phalanx CIWS is a rapid-fire, computer-controlled, radar-guided gun system capable of engaging incoming threats that can breach earlier defensive layers. It is installed on all classes of U.S. Navy surface combatant ships and is also utilized by 24 allied nations. Its effectiveness was notably demonstrated earlier this year when the USS Gravely used the system to intercept and destroy a Houthi missile in the Red Sea, averting a potential disaster and safeguarding over 300 sailors on board.
The recent contract includes provisions for upgrades, conversions, overhauls, and the supply of related equipment, ensuring that the Phalanx remains at the forefront of defense technology. The work associated with this contract will take place in Louisville, Kentucky, and other U.S. facilities, extending through 2029.
Raytheon has a rich history of providing advanced defense solutions, having been at the forefront of technological development for over a century. The company specializes in integrated air and missile defense, advanced sensors and radars, smart weapons, and various other systems vital for national security. As a recognized leader in the defense industry, Raytheon's commitment to innovation and excellence continues to shape the landscape of military technology.
Founded as a part of RTX, which is recognized as the largest aerospace and defense company globally, Raytheon employs over 185,000 individuals and strives to tackle the most pressing challenges in defense and technology. The company's annual sales exceeded $80 billion in 2024, solidifying its position as a powerhouse in the defense sector.
As geopolitical tensions continue to escalate globally, the Phalanx system's reliability and effectiveness make it a crucial asset for the U.S. Navy and its allies. With this new contract, Raytheon not only reaffirms its partnership with the Navy but also ensures continued enhancement of technologies that protect naval forces against asymmetric and conventional threats.
The strategic importance of the Phalanx weapon system cannot be understated, as it serves as the first line of defense against incoming missiles and air threats. Raytheon's ongoing commitment to advancing such systems highlights the overlapping need for technological innovation and operational readiness in modern warfare.