RTX's Raytheon delivers 250th RAM launcher to U.S. Navy

Rhea-AI Summary

Raytheon, an RTX business, and German partner RAM-Systems GmbH have achieved a significant milestone with the delivery of their 250th RAM MK49 Guided-Missile Launching System (GMLS) to the U.S. Navy. The system will be installed on the USS Pittsburgh, a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock.

The RAM (Rolling Airframe Missile) program, approaching its 50th anniversary, represents a bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Germany. The system protects naval assets from advanced threats, serving vessels ranging from 220-foot corvettes to 1,100-foot nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. Beyond the U.S. and Germany, RAM has been adopted by multiple nations including Egypt, Japan, Korea, and others.

Raytheon has recently doubled its GMLS manufacturing capacity to meet growing global demand, while continuing to invest in system modernization and capability enhancements.

Positive

• Milestone achievement of 250th RAM launcher delivery demonstrates strong market position
• Wide international customer base across multiple countries indicates strong global demand
• Recent doubling of manufacturing capacity shows business growth and scalability
• Long-term bilateral partnership with Germany provides stable business foundation

Negative

• None.

Insights

Defense Industry Analyst

RTX's 250th RAM launcher delivery highlights strong defense business performance and potential for increased international demand.

This delivery milestone represents a significant achievement for RTX's naval defense business. The RAM (Rolling Airframe Missile) system has proven its value over nearly five decades, with the 250th MK49 Guided-Missile Launching System now being deployed on the USS Pittsburgh. The system's longevity and widespread adoption across 12 international navies demonstrates its effectiveness and RTX's strong position in the naval defense market.

What's particularly notable is the company's recent investment in doubling production capacity at its GMLS manufacturing facilities. This strategic expansion suggests RTX is anticipating increased demand, likely driven by heightened global security concerns and naval modernization efforts worldwide. The RAM system's versatility in protecting vessels ranging from 220-foot corvettes to 1,100-foot aircraft carriers enhances its market appeal.

The bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Germany through RAM-Systems GmbH represents a stable, long-term arrangement that provides program stability while facilitating international sales. With customers including strategic allies in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, RTX benefits from diversified revenue streams within its Naval Power segment. The mention of continued modernization efforts indicates ongoing R&D investment to maintain the system's relevance against evolving threats, suggesting a prolonged revenue lifecycle rather than a program nearing obsolescence.

RAM is a vital component of naval defense, protecting high-value assets and the lives of thousands of sailors and marines

TUCSON, Ariz., May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business and German industrial partner RAM-Systems GmbH, delivered the 250^th RAM MK49 Guided-Missile Launching System (GMLS) to the U.S. Navy. It will be deployed on the USS Pittsburgh, a new-construction San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock.

The RAM program, which will celebrate its 50^th anniversary next year, is a bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Germany with Raytheon serving as a prime contractor. In addition to the U.S. and Germany, RAM customers include Egypt, Greece, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates.

"The RAM missile system has been a cornerstone of naval defense capabilities for decades, and this 250^th GMLS delivery is a testament to the important role it plays in defending U.S. and allied forces," said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. "As we continue to modernize and expand the deployment of RAM, it remains a critical asset in protecting our sailors and ships from evolving threats."

As the world's premier ship self-defense effector, RAM protects naval assets ranging in size from 220-foot corvettes to 1,100-foot nuclear powered aircraft carriers from advanced anti-ship cruise missiles, aircraft, drones, and other incoming threats. 

Raytheon and its German industrial partners continue to invest in modernizing the RAM system to increase production capacity to meet growing global demand as well as enhance the capabilities of the RAM effector and launching system.  This includes Raytheon's GMLS manufacturing facilities – which have recently doubled production capacity – in addition to weapon system upgrades and supporting RAM integration aboard new naval platforms.

About Raytheon
Raytheon, an RTX business, is a leading provider of defense solutions to help the U.S. government, our allies and partners defend their national sovereignty and ensure their security. For more than 100 years, Raytheon has developed new technologies and enhanced existing capabilities in integrated air and missile defense, smart weapons, missiles, advanced sensors and radars, interceptors, space-based systems, hypersonics and missile defense across land, air, sea and space.

About RTX
RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact corporatepr@rtx.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rtxs-raytheon-delivers-250th-ram-launcher-to-us-navy-302455211.html

SOURCE RTX

FAQ

What is the significance of RTX's 250th RAM launcher delivery to the U.S. Navy?

The 250th RAM launcher delivery marks a significant milestone for RTX's Raytheon business, demonstrating the system's crucial role in naval defense. The system will be deployed on the USS Pittsburgh and represents decades of successful bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Germany.

Which countries currently use RTX's RAM missile system?

The RAM system is used by the U.S., Germany, Egypt, Greece, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates.

How has RTX expanded its RAM launcher production capacity?

RTX's Raytheon has recently doubled its GMLS manufacturing facilities' production capacity to meet growing global demand for the RAM system.

What types of naval vessels can RTX's RAM system protect?

The RAM system can protect naval assets ranging from 220-foot corvettes to 1,100-foot nuclear powered aircraft carriers from threats including anti-ship cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones.

How long has RTX's RAM missile program been in operation?

The RAM program is approaching its 50th anniversary next year, representing a long-standing bilateral partnership between the U.S. and Germany.