Block V Tomahawk launch from USS Chafee in November 2020. (Photo: USN/Ensign Sean Ianno)
Raytheon Technologies is to integrate, produce, qualify, test and field Tomahawk Block Va (Maritime Strike Tomahawk - MST) seeker suites and all subsystems required to provide mid-course and terminal guidance, under a $19.59 million contract modification from US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).
‘The procured quantity of seeker suites will be installed in recertified Tomahawk missiles for the Navy,’ the DoD announced on 29 October, adding that work is expected to be completed by October 2024.
All Tomahawk Block IVs in USN service are being upgraded to the Block V/Va/Vb configuration with a longer range, dynamic targeting and (in the case of MST) the capability to hit vessels at sea.
In this context, MST was name-checked by ADM Philip Davidson, head of the US Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) during a Senate Armed Services Committee appearance in March 2021 as one of the crucial weapon systems required for US forces in the region.
The UK RN is also installing the missile on its Type 26 (City-class) frigates and MST is also earmarked for the future Canadian Surface Combatant.
Forming part of the Reconciliation Bill, the funding will support multiple efforts involving autonomous capabilities, interceptors, missiles, rockets and torpedoes.
The delivery acceptance of the future USS Pierre marks the conclusion of the construction phase for the Independence-variant.
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.
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