RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
The US Naval Air Systems Command’s (NAVAIR) Tactical Airlift Program Office (PMA-207) Commercial Modifications and Range Support team has accepted delivery of a new Gulfstream G550-derivative aircraft.
The modified Gulfstream G550 has been adapted to house specialised telemetry equipment, unique to the navy’s application. The G550 will serve as the replacement for an aging P-3 range support aircraft operated out of Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division in Point Mugu, California.
The aircraft’s airborne early warning structural modifications will allow the installation of a telemetry system and additional equipment to support future missions.
Raytheon, the aircraft’s Phase II integrator, will now receive the aircraft and develop, procure and integrate systems that will give the aircraft a multi-role capability in telemetry data collection, range safety and surveillance and communications relay.
The aircraft is expected to be delivered for initial operating capability by August 2021.
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
The nearly $25 billion investment will cover USCG procurement of cutters, aircraft, helicopters, training simulators and Polar capabilities over the next four years.
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
The US Coast Guard (USCG) created new units, including five Programme Executive Offices (PEOs), to facilitate and speed up the procurement of new capabilities.
The US Navy does not have a precise date for the award of the procurement contract for the third Arleigh Burke-class destroyer despite having the funds to advance with the programme in FY2025.
The US Navy (USN) is currently reassessing its acquisition efforts and seeking ways to reduce the multiple delays across the shipbuilding initiatives.