#United States #U.S. Navy #Raytheon #SPY-6(V)4 #Wallops Island

Raytheon Achieves Major Milestone with SPY-6(V)4 Installation

In a significant advance for the U.S. Navy's modernization objectives, Raytheon, an RTX business, has successfully installed the inaugural SPY-6(V)4 radar array at the Surface Combat Systems Center located at Wallops Island, Virginia. This accomplishment represents an important step in the flight IIA destroyer modernization initiative as well as the broader SPY-6 backfit program.

The Wallops Island facility, strategically situated over an open-water environment, is set to facilitate extensive testing of the radar's performance, its power requirements, and combat system interfaces. The primary goal is to prepare for the integration of SPY-6(V)4 on the USS Pinckney (DDG 91), the first ship designated to receive this advanced radar system. Notably, SPY-6(V)4 is uniquely designed for use in Flight IIA destroyers and is one of four diverse variants in the broader SPY-6 radar family. Initial testing activities are projected to commence later this year and are expected to continue through mid-2028.

Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon, emphasized the advantages of utilizing the Wallops test site, stating, "By leveraging the Wallops test site, we'll be able to integrate SPY-6(V)4 with its dedicated power system before it reaches the ship, reducing the amount of testing needed on DDG 91. That means less time in the shipyard, more time dedicated to the mission, and a smoother path for future backfit ships."

The DDG 91 is on track for its SPY-6(V)4 backfit, with installation anticipated from late 2026 through 2028. This collaborative effort between the Navy, the NASA Wallops team, and industry partners highlights a robust government-industry relationship determined to enhance capabilities for the surface fleet.

Additional radar variants from the SPY-6 family are already deployed on two commissioned U.S. Navy vessels, while 11 other ships are actively undergoing necessary tests in preparation for commissioning. Over the next decade, it is anticipated that the SPY-6 radar systems will be installed on more than 50 U.S. Navy ships, significantly amplifying defenses against a wide range of threats including aerial, surface, ballistic, and electronic warfare.

The success of Raytheon's SPY-6 radar family is underpinned by over ten years of rigorous design, testing, and manufacturing expertise, ensuring validated performance during sea trials. To this end, the company has committed an impressive $800 million to upgrade manufacturing facilities and expand production capabilities. These enhancements will enable Raytheon to significantly boost SPY-6 production rates, aiming to double output by 2028, which will further ensure long-term supply for the Navy while reducing costs.

In line with these ambitious goals, Raytheon is actively recruiting to reinforce the program's workforce. Opportunities exist for both emerging talent and seasoned professionals, as well as veterans seeking to contribute to this vital initiative. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the Raytheon website to discover available job positions and submit applications.

About Raytheon

Raytheon has emerged as a front-runner in providing advanced defense solutions, aiming to protect national sovereignty for the U.S. government and allied partners. With over a century of experience, the company has made impressive strides in developing innovative technologies in realms such as air and missile defense systems, smart munitions, missiles, advanced sensors, and much more.

About RTX

With a workforce that exceeds 180,000 globally, RTX stands at the cutting edge of technology and science, pushing boundaries to enhance global connections and security. By fostering unparalleled capabilities, RTX plays a critical role in aviation and defense, as well as on building next-generation technological solutions. For the year 2025, the company is projected to achieve sales exceeding $88 billion, with its headquarters located in Arlington, Virginia.