The U.S. Navy has awarded Raytheon, an RTX business, a $22.9 billion contract to accelerate the production of Tomahawk missiles. The Department of War announced the contract Monday, signaling a move to expand the nation's munitions capacity and replenish long-range strike weapons.
The agreement provides Raytheon with the financial stability to increase its workforce, boost manufacturing output, strengthen supply chains, and speed up deliveries of the cruise missiles to U.S. forces. The Tomahawk is a key long-range strike weapon capable of being launched from Navy ships and submarines against targets hundreds of miles away.
This investment aligns with the Department of War's Acquisition Transformation Strategy, which seeks to expedite weapons deliveries and reduce procurement lead times. Officials have emphasized the importance of expanding the U.S. defense industrial base and shortening production timelines for critical weapons, especially as military operations and global tensions put a renewed focus on the resilience of American weapons stockpiles.
Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael Duffey stated that the contract increases the ability to equip the Joint Force, ensuring that American service members are well-equipped. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao added that guaranteeing lethal firepower to deter aggression and protect the homeland is paramount, and this investment will accelerate Tomahawk missile delivery to warfighters at an unprecedented speed.
The contract was awarded as President Donald Trump addressed concerns regarding the strain on U.S. weapons stockpiles, particularly in the context of escalating geopolitical tensions. Trump dismissed these concerns, stating that the amount of weaponry used in recent conflicts was minimal and that the U.S. possesses substantial reserves of mid-level weapons.