Leidos Boosts U.S. Missile Manufacturing Capability with New Production Plans
Leidos is making significant strides in reinforcing the U.S. missile industrial sector, gearing up to manufacture thousands of affordable long-range cruise missiles. This ambitious initiative falls in line with a recent framework agreement signed with the Department of War, aiming to produce an initial batch of 3,000 Low-Cost Containerized Missiles (LCCM) alongside the battle-tested AGM-190A Havoc Spear missile.
The recent summit, which occurred at Leidos' headquarters on September 26, brought together essential missile-component suppliers to discuss key aspects such as manufacturing capacity, product requirements, delivery timelines, and schedules. This collaborative effort aims to ensure a streamlined manufacturing process that can adapt to the increasing demands for missile technology, thereby enhancing the U.S. military’s long-range striking capabilities. Cindy Gruensfelder, the President of Leidos Defense, stated that the company is committed to rapidly scaling cruise missile production, with robust plans in place to optimize resources, facilities, and personnel.
The production capabilities for both the LCCM and AGM-190A will majorly be located in Huntsville, Alabama, and McEwen, Tennessee, with the supply chain extending to 14 states nationwide. The first missiles are expected to be delivered in 2027 to support necessary tests, while full production rates are projected to reach their peak in 2028 and 2029.
The contract for the AGM-190A Havoc Spear missile is also progressing, as initial deliveries are already underway to the Air Force Special Operations Command. Additionally, Leidos has secured a recent contract to provide 45 missiles under a deal with the U.S. Special Operations Command, commencing deliveries in fall 2027.
The increasing demand for reliable missile systems has prompted suppliers like Pratt Whitney to ramp up production and boost their manufacturing capabilities to meet current and future operational needs. Jessica Villardi, their vice president, highlighted that they are investing in advanced manufacturing processes to enhance the industrial base and speed up delivery timelines for critical propulsion systems.
Commenting on the cooperation within the industry, Ben Nicholson, Chief Commercial Officer for Divergent, emphasized the unprecedented pace and urgency demonstrated during the summit. He noted that such collaborative initiatives signify a new era in delivering capabilities to the Department of War.
With decades of experience in designing and integrating missile systems, Leidos is strategically positioned to play a crucial role in advancing the technological capabilities of the U.S. military. Their portfolio showcases exceptional advancements in precision strike technology, including the Army's Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) and hypersonic strike technology, supplemented by superior guidance and sensor capabilities for both air and missile defense.
As a leading industry player, Leidos operates globally from its headquarters in Reston, Virginia, employing approximately 50,000 individuals and reporting annual revenues of about $17.2 billion. The company's continued investment in the missile sector not only aims to strengthen national security but also paves the way for technological advancements that will support the U.S. military in its operational missions.
The recent summit, which occurred at Leidos' headquarters on September 26, brought together essential missile-component suppliers to discuss key aspects such as manufacturing capacity, product requirements, delivery timelines, and schedules. This collaborative effort aims to ensure a streamlined manufacturing process that can adapt to the increasing demands for missile technology, thereby enhancing the U.S. military’s long-range striking capabilities. Cindy Gruensfelder, the President of Leidos Defense, stated that the company is committed to rapidly scaling cruise missile production, with robust plans in place to optimize resources, facilities, and personnel.
The production capabilities for both the LCCM and AGM-190A will majorly be located in Huntsville, Alabama, and McEwen, Tennessee, with the supply chain extending to 14 states nationwide. The first missiles are expected to be delivered in 2027 to support necessary tests, while full production rates are projected to reach their peak in 2028 and 2029.
The contract for the AGM-190A Havoc Spear missile is also progressing, as initial deliveries are already underway to the Air Force Special Operations Command. Additionally, Leidos has secured a recent contract to provide 45 missiles under a deal with the U.S. Special Operations Command, commencing deliveries in fall 2027.
The increasing demand for reliable missile systems has prompted suppliers like Pratt Whitney to ramp up production and boost their manufacturing capabilities to meet current and future operational needs. Jessica Villardi, their vice president, highlighted that they are investing in advanced manufacturing processes to enhance the industrial base and speed up delivery timelines for critical propulsion systems.
Commenting on the cooperation within the industry, Ben Nicholson, Chief Commercial Officer for Divergent, emphasized the unprecedented pace and urgency demonstrated during the summit. He noted that such collaborative initiatives signify a new era in delivering capabilities to the Department of War.
With decades of experience in designing and integrating missile systems, Leidos is strategically positioned to play a crucial role in advancing the technological capabilities of the U.S. military. Their portfolio showcases exceptional advancements in precision strike technology, including the Army's Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) and hypersonic strike technology, supplemented by superior guidance and sensor capabilities for both air and missile defense.
As a leading industry player, Leidos operates globally from its headquarters in Reston, Virginia, employing approximately 50,000 individuals and reporting annual revenues of about $17.2 billion. The company's continued investment in the missile sector not only aims to strengthen national security but also paves the way for technological advancements that will support the U.S. military in its operational missions.
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