U.S. Navy awards RTX $80 million to prototype Advanced Electronic Warfare for the Super Hornet

Rhea-AI Summary

Raytheon (NYSE: RTX) awarded $80 million contract by the United States Navy to prototype Advanced Electronic Warfare (ADVEW) for the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet, replacing legacy systems with a one-box solution, delivering superior electronic warfare capabilities.

Defense Industry Analyst

An $80 million contract awarded to Raytheon by the U.S. Navy for the development of the Advanced Electronic Warfare (ADVEW) system signals a strategic move to enhance the electronic warfare capabilities of the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. This investment is indicative of the evolving defense landscape, where modernization and technological advancements are critical for maintaining military superiority.

From an industry perspective, the integration of a 'one-box solution' represents a significant leap in efficiency and performance, potentially setting a new standard for electronic warfare systems. The consolidation of multiple systems into a single unit not only streamlines operations but also reduces maintenance complexity and lifecycle costs. This approach aligns with the broader trend in defense spending towards sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

For stakeholders, the short-term implications include the anticipation of increased R&D expenditures as the project progresses through the prototype phase. However, the long-term benefits could include strengthened market positioning for Raytheon within the defense sector, potentially leading to further contracts and collaborations.

It is important to note that while this contract may bolster investor confidence in Raytheon, the defense industry is subject to regulatory and geopolitical variables that can influence project outcomes and stock performance. As such, this development should be monitored for its potential impact on Raytheon's financials and strategic direction.

Financial Analyst

The announcement of the ADVEW contract with Raytheon could have a material impact on the company's financial projections and stock valuation. An $80 million contract, while not transformative for a company of Raytheon's size, is nonetheless a positive indicator of its competitive position in the defense sector. The contract also reflects ongoing government investment in defense capabilities, which is a reliable revenue stream for companies like Raytheon.

Investors should consider the incremental revenue from this contract in the context of Raytheon's overall financial health. The successful development of ADVEW may lead to further contracts for production and maintenance, providing a longer-term revenue outlook. However, it is crucial to balance this against the costs associated with the research and development phase, which could impact short-term margins.

The contract's emphasis on open architecture could also have broader implications for the defense industry, potentially leading to increased collaboration and standardization. This could benefit Raytheon if it becomes a benchmark provider for such integrated systems.

Aerospace Engineer

The technical aspects of Raytheon's ADVEW project represent a notable advancement in aerospace and defense engineering. By consolidating the AN/ALQ-214 and AN/ALR-67(V)3 systems into a singular, more efficient package, the engineering challenges are substantial but offer considerable rewards in terms of aircraft performance and capability.

The adoption of government-defined open architecture is a forward-thinking move that will likely facilitate future upgrades and integration with other systems. This modular approach is increasingly favored in modern defense design, as it allows for greater adaptability to emerging threats and technologies.

For the aerospace sector, this project may drive innovation and set new standards for electronic warfare systems. The successful implementation of ADVEW could lead to similar modernization efforts across other aircraft platforms, further solidifying the importance of electronic warfare in contemporary and future combat scenarios.

ADVEW will replace legacy systems with a one-box solution

GOLETA, Calif., Dec. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The United States Navy awarded Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) Business, an $80 million contract in a down select to prototype Advanced Electronic Warfare, or ADVEW, for the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet. This prototype will be considered as a replacement for the existing AN/ALQ-214 integrated defensive electronic countermeasure and AN/ALR-67(V)3 radar warning receiver with a consolidated solution that will deliver superior electronic warfare capabilities to the backbone of the Navy's carrier air wing.

"These advancements are paving the way for the next generation of electronic warfare," said Bryan Rosselli, president of Advanced Products & Solutions at Raytheon. "We are completely replacing and consolidating the legacy systems into a one-box solution that will deliver a generational refresh to the electronic warfare capability for the lifetime of the Super Hornet."

Raytheon's Advanced Electronic Warfare offering will provide significant performance upgrades by modernizing existing electronic warfare systems into fewer components and incorporating government-defined open architecture. Development of this new solution will closely align and integrate with other combat-proven, radio frequency sensors and effectors employed by the Super Hornet. ADVEW will ensure F/A-18E/Fs maintain their operational electronic warfare advantage, while significantly improving survivability against advanced, complex threats.  

Development and testing of ADVEW will mainly take place in Goleta, California. During the prototype phase, the system will undergo preliminary design review, critical design review, and flight testing over a 36-month period.

About Raytheon
Raytheon, an RTX business, is a leading provider of offensive and 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, offensive and defensive cybersecurity tools, 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 180,000 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 2022 sales of $67 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

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

 

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SOURCE RTX

What contract did Raytheon receive from the United States Navy?

Raytheon (NYSE: RTX) was awarded an $80 million contract by the United States Navy to prototype Advanced Electronic Warfare (ADVEW) for the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet.

What legacy systems will be replaced by ADVEW?

ADVEW will replace the existing AN/ALQ-214 integrated defensive electronic countermeasure and AN/ALR-67(V)3 radar warning receiver with a consolidated solution.

Where will the development and testing of ADVEW take place?

Development and testing of ADVEW will mainly take place in Goleta, California.

What are the expected benefits of ADVEW for the F/A-18E/Fs?

ADVEW will provide significant performance upgrades by modernizing existing electronic warfare systems into fewer components and incorporating government-defined open architecture, ensuring improved survivability against advanced, complex threats.

Who is the president of Advanced Products & Solutions at Raytheon?

Bryan Rosselli is the president of Advanced Products & Solutions at Raytheon.