Defense & Military
RTX Raytheon Secures 760M Contract to Boost AMRAAM Air Defense
Raytheon wins $760M contract to enhance AMRAAM missile production, strengthening U.S. and allied air defense capabilities globally.
The recent $760 million contract awarded to RTX’s Raytheon by the U.S. Air Force marks a significant step forward in the modernization and expansion of air-to-air missile capabilities for both the United States and its key allies. As international security dynamics evolve, the demand for advanced, reliable, and interoperable defense solutions has never been greater. This contract, focused on the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM), not only supports U.S. military readiness but also strengthens the defense posture of allied nations such as Canada, Taiwan, Sweden, and the Czech Republic through Foreign Military Sales (FMS).
Scheduled for completion by September 2030 and centered in Tucson, Arizona, the contract underscores a broader trend of increasing investment in next-generation munitions. It is a response to both the growing sophistication of adversary capabilities and the need to replenish stockpiles depleted by ongoing global conflicts. The AMRAAM’s proven performance, technological evolution, and adaptability make it a linchpin of modern air combat and integrated air defense systems.
This article explores the historical context, technical details, recent developments, global partnerships, and future implications of the AMRAAM program, providing a comprehensive analysis of its significance in today’s defense environment.
The AMRAAM program traces its origins to the late 1970s, when the U.S. Air Forces sought a leap forward in air-to-air combat technology. Recognizing the limitations of the AIM-7 Sparrow, which required pilots to maintain radar lock on targets throughout engagement, the Air Force and Navy pursued a new missile with active radar homing and “fire-and-forget” capabilities. This led to the conceptual phase of the AMRAAM program in 1979, with Hughes Aircraft Co. and Raytheon Co. selected as competing contractors for validation and development.
After rigorous testing and demonstration of flight-test hardware, Hughes was chosen as the full-scale developer and Raytheon as a follower producer, establishing a dual-source production model that ensured competition, redundancy, and production capacity. Over 200 test missiles were launched during development, validating the AMRAAM’s active radar seeker and its ability to engage targets without continuous guidance from the launching aircraft. This innovation significantly improved pilot survivability and tactical flexibility.
Production contracts were awarded in 1987, and the AMRAAM quickly became the backbone of U.S. and allied air dominance. Its integration on a wide array of platforms and continuous upgrades have kept it relevant in the face of evolving threats and technological advancements.
The AMRAAM has seen several variants, with the AIM-120D representing the latest in operational capability. This variant features GPS guidance, advanced anti-jam technology, and an extended range exceeding 110 miles, addressing both traditional and emerging threats. Unit costs vary by variant: the AIM-120D is approximately $1.09 million, AIM-120C-5 about $1.3 million, and AIM-120C-8 close to $1.9 million, reflecting the increasing sophistication of guidance and electronic warfare systems.
Production has ramped up in response to increased demand. Raytheon’s Tucson facility, the primary manufacturing hub, has historically produced 450–650 AMRAAMs per year, but recent contracts have pushed this figure to around 1,200 annually. The Air Force has requested additional funding to further expand capacity, aiming for 2,400 missiles per year by 2028. This reflects both the need to replenish stockpiles and to support growing international orders. Recent upgrades, such as the F3R (form, fit, function refresh), enhance signal processing, guidance, and resilience against electronic warfare, ensuring the missile’s continued effectiveness in contested environments. These enhancements are crucial as adversaries develop advanced countermeasures and electronic warfare systems.
“The AMRAAM program has evolved through continuous innovation, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of U.S. and allied air superiority in a rapidly changing threat landscape.”
The $760 million contract is part of a broader surge in AMRAAM procurement. It follows a record-setting $3.5 billion contract for Production Lots 39 and 40, which includes FMS to 19 allied nations and represents the largest single AMRAAM contract in the program’s history. These contracts cover not only missile production but also telemetry systems, spare parts, and engineering support, reflecting the comprehensive nature of modern defense acquisitions.
Funding for these contracts is multi-sourced, involving fiscal allocations from the Air Force, Navy, and FMS partners. For example, the $3.5 billion contract includes $621 million in FMS funds and Navy procurement allocations, with additional Air Force procurement and research funds spread across multiple fiscal years. This layered funding approach ensures sustained production and delivery over several years.
The alignment of contract timelines, with work expected to continue through 2030 and beyond, provides stability for the defense industrial base and supports workforce retention and skill development in key regions like Tucson.
The AMRAAM’s widespread adoption among U.S. allies is a testament to its reliability and interoperability. The latest contracts include FMS to countries such as Canada, Taiwan, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and, notably, Ukraine, a reflection of the weapon’s role in supporting partners facing significant security challenges. In total, the AMRAAM is integrated on 14 different aircraft platforms across 44 countries, underpinning joint and coalition air operations worldwide.
Operational experience has further cemented the AMRAAM’s reputation. In Ukraine, the missile has been used extensively for both air-to-air and surface-to-air missions, including integration with the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). Its effectiveness against drones, cruise missiles, and manned aircraft in contested environments has been repeatedly demonstrated in recent conflicts across Europe and the Middle East.
Beyond air-to-air combat, the AMRAAM’s adaptability for use in integrated air defense systems has increased its strategic value. NASAMS, for example, protects critical infrastructure in the U.S. and several allied nations. The missile’s proven record in intercepting a diverse range of threats has made it a preferred choice for countries seeking to bolster their air defense capabilities in the face of evolving global threats.
“Recent combat use in Ukraine and the Middle East has validated the AMRAAM’s versatility and effectiveness, reinforcing international confidence in the system.”
Raytheon’s Tucson facility anchors a regional defense ecosystem, supporting not only direct missile production but also a network of suppliers and subcontractors. The Department of Defense’s subcontracting plan aims for 30% participation by small businesses, spreading economic benefits throughout the supply chain and supporting local economies. The international market for air-to-air missiles is robust, with the sector valued at $7.36 billion in 2025 and projected to grow to $10.74 billion by 2030. AMRAAM contracts, with recent awards exceeding $4 billion, represent a significant share of this market. International demand provides economies of scale, reducing unit costs and fostering technological collaboration among partner nations.
Maintaining and expanding production capacity presents challenges, including workforce development and supply chain resilience. Raytheon has invested in training and infrastructure to meet rising demand, but further expansion will require sustained investment and coordination across the defense industrial base.
The global air-to-air missile market is increasingly competitive. China’s PL-15 and Europe’s MBDA Meteor represent significant advancements in range, speed, and electronic warfare capabilities. These developments have spurred continued investment in AMRAAM upgrades, including potential new variants with extended range and improved counter-countermeasure features.
Congressional interest in missile stockpiles and readiness has led to calls for expanded inventories and assessments of current capabilities. The goal is to ensure that the U.S. and its allies are prepared for high-intensity conflicts that could rapidly deplete existing stocks.
Looking ahead, the AMRAAM program will likely focus on further improvements in guidance, propulsion, and electronic warfare resilience. Integration with next-generation fighters and air defense systems will be key to maintaining air superiority in an era of rapidly advancing adversary capabilities.
The $760 million AMRAAM contract awarded to RTX’s Raytheon is more than a procurement milestone, it is a strategic investment in the security and interoperability of the United States and its allies. The contract, alongside recent multi-billion-dollar awards, demonstrates the high priority placed on maintaining technological superiority and readiness in the face of evolving threats.
With a proven track record, continuous upgrades, and global adoption, the AMRAAM remains central to modern air combat and integrated air defense. The ongoing expansion of production capacity, coupled with sustained international demand, ensures that the missile will continue to play a pivotal role in safeguarding allied airspace and supporting collective defense for years to come.
What is the AMRAAM missile and why is it important? Which countries are included in recent AMRAAM contracts? How much does an AMRAAM missile cost? Why is production capacity being expanded? What advancements are planned for future AMRAAM variants? Sources:
RTX’s Raytheon Secures $760 Million AMRAAM Contract: A Strategic Boost to U.S. and Allied Air Defense
Historical Context and Technological Evolution of AMRAAM
Technical Specifications and Production Trends
Recent Contract Awards and Financial Impact
Global Partnerships and Operational Experience
Industrial Base and Economic Impact
Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
The AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) is a modern, active radar-guided missile used by the U.S. and allied air forces for air-to-air combat and surface-to-air defense. Its “fire-and-forget” capability and adaptability make it a cornerstone of air superiority strategies.
Recent contracts involve Foreign Military Sales to nations including Canada, Taiwan, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and a broader group of 19 allied countries, reflecting the missile’s global adoption and interoperability.
Costs vary by variant: the AIM-120D is about $1.09 million, AIM-120C-5 is around $1.3 million, and AIM-120C-8 can reach approximately $1.9 million per missile.
Production is being ramped up in response to increased demand from both the U.S. military and international partners, as well as the need to replenish stocks depleted by ongoing conflicts and to prepare for future contingencies.
Future upgrades are expected to focus on extended range, improved electronic warfare resilience, and enhanced guidance systems to counter advanced threats from near-peer competitors.
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Photo Credit: RTX
Defense & Military
Pratt & Whitney Secures $1.6B F135 Engine Sustainment Contract
Pratt & Whitney won a $1.6B contract for F135 engine sustainment to support the global F-35 fleet, covering maintenance and engineering through 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from RTX. See the original release for full details.
Pratt & Whitney Secures $1.6 Billion Contract for F-35 Engine Sustainment
RTX business Pratt & Whitney has been awarded a contract worth up to $1.6 billion to provide sustainability support for the F135 propulsion system, the engine that powers the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. Announced on December 2, 2025, the agreement covers maintenance, repair, and engineering support for the global fleet, ensuring operational readiness for the United States and its international allies.
According to the company’s official statement, the award is structured as an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA). This contracting vehicle allows work to commence immediately while final terms are negotiated, highlighting the Department of Defense’s prioritization of fleet readiness. The contract supports all three variants of the fighter, the F-35A, F-35B, and F-35C, and is expected to run through November 2026.
Scope of Work and Global Operations
The contract encompasses a wide range of critical logistics and engineering services designed to keep the F135 engine operational. Pratt & Whitney stated that the scope includes depot-level maintenance and repair, propulsion system integration, material management, and the replenishment of spare parts. Additionally, the agreement covers software sustainment and engineering support.
Work will be distributed across a substantial domestic and international network. According to RTX, approximately 40% of the work will be performed in East Hartford, Connecticut, with another 21% taking place in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Other U.S. performance locations include Florida, Indiana, and Texas.
Reflecting the F-35’s status as a global coalition aircraft, the sustainment efforts will also involve international facilities. The press release lists key locations in Norway, the Netherlands, Japan, Australia, Italy, and the United Kingdom as part of the support network.
“F-35 operators worldwide depend on the F135 for the power and performance their missions demand, and this award helps us maintain readiness rates that enable the warfighter to accomplish their critical missions.”
, Kinda Eastwood, Vice President of F135 Sustainment at Pratt & Whitney
Program Context and Fleet Readiness
This sustainment award follows a period of significant activity for the F135 program. In August 2025, Pratt & Whitney received a $2.8 billion production contract for Lot 18 engines. With over 1,300 production engines delivered to date, the focus has increasingly shifted toward maintaining the aging fleet while simultaneously producing new units.
AirPro News Analysis: The Significance of the UCA
The decision to utilize an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA) is noteworthy. In defense contracting, a UCA is typically employed when the government’s need for supplies or services is urgent and cannot wait for the lengthy process of finalizing a definitive contract. By authorizing immediate work, the Pentagon is signaling that maintaining F-35 engine readiness is a critical priority that supersedes administrative finality.
This urgency aligns with the current geopolitical landscape. With F-35 assets critical to deterrence strategies in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, any gap in propulsion maintenance could directly impact mission assurance. The UCA mechanism ensures that the flow of spare parts and depot repairs continues uninterrupted.
Long-Term Sustainment and Upgrades
While this $1.6 billion contract addresses immediate sustainment needs through late 2026, the F-35 program faces broader long-term challenges regarding operating costs. Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports from 2024 and 2025 have highlighted that lifetime sustainment costs for the program could reach approximately $1.58 trillion through 2088. As of late 2025, the annual sustainment cost per tail for the F-35A remains significantly above original targets, hovering between $6.6 million and $6.8 million.
Parallel to these sustainment efforts, Pratt & Whitney is executing a separate $1.3 billion contract for the F135 Engine Core Upgrade (ECU). This modernization effort aims to enhance the engine’s power and cooling capabilities to support “Block 4” weapons and sensors. The ECU is currently scheduled for fielding in 2029.
The newly announced sustainment contract serves as a bridge, ensuring the current fleet remains viable and combat-ready while the program navigates these future upgrades and cost-reduction initiatives.
Sources:
- RTX / Pratt & Whitney Press Release
- Government Accountability Office (GAO) Reports (Contextual Data)
Photo Credit: RTX
Defense & Military
US Approves $1B Helicopter Support Sale to Saudi Arabia
The US State Department approved a $1 billion helicopter support and training package to Saudi Arabia focused on sustaining existing rotary-wing fleets.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters.
The United States State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Saudi Arabia valued at approximately $1 billion. As reported by Reuters on December 1, 2025, the package is designed to provide critical logistics support and training for the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Corps (RSLFAC). The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has officially notified Congress of the certification, initiating the standard legislative review period.
This approval marks a continuation of the strengthening defense ties between Washington and Riyadh, following significant diplomatic engagements earlier in the year. According to details released regarding the sale, the package is strictly focused on sustaining existing fleets rather than introducing new offensive capabilities. The deal is split evenly between two major components: a $500 million allocation for logistics and spares, and a separate $500 million allocation for comprehensive aviation training.
The proposed sale is structured to ensure the operational readiness of Saudi Arabia’s extensive fleet of American-made rotary-wing military aircraft. Reporting indicates that the package addresses two distinct requirements through separate cases.
The first component is a Cooperative Logistics Supply Support Arrangement (CLSSA). This segment covers requisition orders for spare and repair parts essential for maintaining the RSLFAC fleet. According to the notification, the specific aircraft supported under this arrangement include:
The second component involves a Blanket Order Training case. This funding is designated for aviation training services aimed at RSLFAC personnel. The program encompasses flight training for pilots as well as technical maintenance instruction for ground crews. The stated goal of this provision is to ensure that Saudi personnel remain proficient in operating and maintaining their US-origin fleet effectively and safely.
The sale will “support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States” by improving the security of a strategic partner.
, US State Department (via Reuters)
This announcement comes roughly seven months after a major diplomatic milestone between the two nations. In May 2025, the United States and Saudi Arabia signed a “Strategic Defense Agreement” framework. Reports from that period suggested the broader pact could be valued at up to $142 billion over time, aimed at modernizing the Saudi military and enhancing interoperability with US forces.
The State Department has justified this specific $1 billion sale by emphasizing regional stability. By maintaining the readiness of the Saudi helicopter fleet, the US aims to bolster the Kingdom’s ability to handle border security, counter-terrorism operations, and transport logistics without altering the fundamental military balance in the region. While the dollar figure is significant, the nature of this package, sustainment and training, is less likely to trigger the same level of legislative friction as the sale of precision-guided munitions or advanced offensive weaponry. Sustainment packages are often viewed by defense analysts as necessary to protect previous US investments and ensure that American-made hardware remains safe to operate.
However, the timing places the deal under the microscope of a polarized Congress. The May 2025 agreement remains a point of contention for lawmakers concerned about human rights issues and the lack of Senate oversight regarding long-term security commitments to Riyadh. Consequently, while this specific maintenance deal is operationally standard, it serves as a political litmus test for the durability of the administration’s renewed strategic partnerships with the Kingdom.
Despite the focus on maintenance, the sale faces scrutiny from progressive members of Congress and human rights organizations. Advocacy groups such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have consistently opposed arms transfers to Saudi Arabia, citing the Kingdom’s human rights record and past conduct in regional conflicts.
According to reporting on the congressional landscape, figures such as Representative Ilhan Omar and Senator Jeanne Shaheen have previously expressed opposition to deepening military ties without strict accountability measures. Critics argue that renewing support signals a lack of pressure regarding domestic dissent and border treatment issues within Saudi Arabia.
Congress now holds a 30-day window to review the sale. While resolutions of disapproval may be introduced, blocking a sale of this nature typically requires a veto-proof majority in both chambers, a high threshold that is historically difficult to reach for logistics and training packages. If no legislative roadblocks are successfully erected, the letters of offer and acceptance (LOA) will be finalized, and contracts will likely be awarded to major US defense primes.
Sources:
US State Department Approves $1 Billion Helicopter Support Package for Saudi Arabia
Breakdown of the Support Package
Logistics and Spares ($500 Million)
Aviation Training ($500 Million)
Strategic Context and Timing
AirPro News Analysis
Political Reaction and Next Steps
Photo Credit: Saudi Ministry of Natioanal Guard
Defense & Military
Daher and Thales Demonstrate EyePulse MALE Drone for French DGA
Daher and Thales completed a rapid flight demo of the EyePulse MALE drone in France, supporting sovereign defense drone capabilities.
On December 2, 2025, Daher announced the successful flight demonstration of its EyePulse prototype, a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV developed in partnership with Thales. The demonstration took place at Daher’s industrial facility in Tarbes, France, marking a significant milestone in the company’s response to a call for projects from the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA).
According to the official press release, the project moved from contract signature to maiden flight in less than six months. This rapid development timeline was intended to showcase the agility of the Daher Group and its ability to meet the DGA’s objective of strengthening sovereign drone capabilities for the French armed forces. The flight was conducted in the presence of a DGA delegation, including Alexandre Lahousse, the agency’s Deputy Director General.
The EyePulse project represents a strategic shift toward modifying certified civil aircraft for defense applications, a process often referred to as “dronization.” Rather than developing a new airframe from scratch, Daher utilized an existing platform to accelerate the integration process. While the press release describes the vehicle generally as an “existing platform,” industry data indicates the EyePulse is derived from Daher’s proven TBM single-engine turboprop series.
Daher’s Tarbes-based “Fly’in” technology center led the initiative, applying expertise in rapid prototyping, artificial intelligence, and embedded systems. By leveraging certified technologies from the civil sector, the company aimed to reduce the technical risks and long lead times typically associated with military procurement.
“The speed at which Daher implemented this demonstration illustrates the company’s agility. Its ability to use certified and proven technological building blocks for new applications greatly facilitates their integration in the defense sector.”
, Alexandre Lahousse, Senior General Engineer of Armament (IGCEA) and DGA Deputy Director General The flight demonstration featured a fully automated sequence, including an autonomous landing phase. As the project architect, Daher integrated the ScaleFlyt avionics system provided by its technology partner, Thales. This system is designed to enable automatic and autonomous flight capabilities while maintaining high safety standards derived from civil aviation certification.
Thales also developed the remote piloting control system, which established a secure ground-to-air data link for the demonstration. According to the release, the system utilizes a “technology-agnostic control principle,” making it interoperable with various systems beyond the EyePulse platform. During the event, the autonomous flight phase was activated from the ground station by IGCEA Alexandre Lahousse, highlighting the operational readiness of the interface. Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of the Daher Aircraft division, emphasized the dual-use nature of the project in a statement:
“As a partner of the armed forces for more than 30 years, Daher is leveraging its innovation capabilities and dual-use industrial expertise to fully contribute to the transformation of France’s defense capabilities… This EyePulse flight demonstration confirms the relevance of our approach and our ability to scale up production.”
, Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft Division The EyePulse demonstration is part of a broader initiative by the French Ministry of Armed Forces to develop sovereign MALE drone capabilities. The DGA launched this call for projects to identify cost-effective, rapidly deployable solutions that can reduce reliance on foreign-manufactured systems. By selecting multiple competitors to produce demonstrators, the DGA aims to foster innovation within the French industrial base.
Daher positions the EyePulse as a modular solution capable of evolving to meet changing operational doctrines. The company asserts that its industrial capacity in France allows for the potential series production of drones, aligning with the government’s desire for sovereign supply chains.
The successful flight of the EyePulse highlights a growing trend in the defense sector: the adaptation of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) platforms for military roles. By utilizing the TBM airframe, a globally certified aircraft known for its speed and payload capacity, Daher significantly de-risked the aerodynamic and structural aspects of the program. This allows the development team to focus almost exclusively on the integration of mission systems and autonomous flight controls.
For the French DGA, this approach offers a potential “middle ground” between expensive, custom-built military drones and smaller, tactical UAVs. If the EyePulse can deliver MALE-class endurance with the logistical footprint of a general aviation turboprop, it could provide a highly exportable asset that circumvents the rigorous certification hurdles facing entirely new unmanned airframes.
Daher and Thales Successfully Demonstrate EyePulse MALE Drone for French DGA
Rapid Prototyping and “Dronization”
Autonomous Flight and Avionics Integration
Command and Control
Strategic Context: The DGA Call for Projects
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Daher
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