RTX’s Raytheon Secures $74m US Navy Contract for Developing RAM Missile Launchers

American defence supplier Raytheon, a division of RTX, has won a $74 million contract for the production and maintenance of RAM Guided Missile Launching Systems (GMLS). This contract, the largest single order of U.S RAM launchers in over two decades, shows the ongoing importance of ship self-defense systems in modern naval warfare.

Under the contract, Raytheon will be responsible for producing new launcher systems, refurbishing existing ones, providing hardware to support upgrades, and supplying necessary spare parts, ensuring the continued operational readiness of naval assets against evolving anti-ship threats.

The RAM (Rolling Airframe Missile) system, a collaborative effort between the United States and Germany, is designed as a short-range defense against anti-ship missiles. This international collaboration highlights the shared commitment to naval defense and the pooling of resources and expertise to develop advanced weapon systems.

Raytheon serves as the prime contractor for U.S. Navy requirements. Including both the missile and the launching system, the RAM system is currently deployed on over 165 ships across 11 countries, protecting vessels ranging from small patrol boats to large aircraft carriers. Its integration into new U.S. Navy ship classes, including the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, further highlights its significance.

Its core purpose is to provide a last line of defense, intercepting incoming threats that have penetrated outer defense layers. The system is characterized by its autonomous operation, quick response time, and high firepower, making it a vital asset for naval vessels operating in contested environments.

According to Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon, this contract will ensure that naval assets are well-protected against evolving anti-ship threats. 

The company’s investment in modernizing production capacity aims to meet increasing global demand for this short-range ship self-defense weapon system. As the RAM system approaches its 50th anniversary, this contract demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s commitment to maintaining a robust and up-to-date defense against modern naval threats.

Work on the contract is planned to primarily occur in Louisville, Kentucky, with an expected completion date of 2028. This long-term commitment reflects the complexity of the project and the dedication required to ensure the successful delivery of these critical defense systems. 

The investment in manufacturing and technological expertise in Louisville will contribute to the region’s economy and further strengthen Raytheon’s capabilities in naval defense.

Image credit: Raytheon