General Dynamics wins Hydra-70 rocket contracts
General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products has received two contracts totalling $224 million to provide the US Army with Hydra-70 air-to-ground rockets and supporting engineering services. The awards include $210.4 million for the production of Hydra-70 rockets and $13.5 million for engineering services in support of the Hydra-70 rocket programme.
The Hydra rocket is used against point and area targets, providing the user a lethal and lightweight weapon system with multi-mission capability. The rockets are composed of two main components: the MK66 rocket motor and the warhead, the latter of which varies to meet a wide range of mission requirements. The 2.75-inch diameter rocket can be mounted on most helicopters and some aircraft.
Steve Elgin, vice president and general manager of Armament Systems for General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, said: ‘General Dynamics has supplied Hydra rockets to US warfighters and to several of the nation's closest allies for more than 15 years. Our long-held experience in managing the Hydra programme allows us to work closely with the army to deliver a weapon that is affordably built and dependable in action.’
The contracts were issued by the US Army Contracting Command, with delivery scheduled for completion in early 2015. The army orders Hydra rockets for all branches of the US military and select allies.
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