Phalanx Robot Cannon: 4,500 rounds per minute to protect US ships

The last line of defense on deck

Every major US Navy ship has one special guardian on board — not a sailor, not a radar, but a robot cannon. This is the MK 15 Phalanx melee system. Her task is a last—ditch attempt to stop something that has already broken through: an anti-ship missile, a drone or an aircraft that has slipped through all the external lines of defense. If it doesn't work, the body will be hit.

Phalanx is not just a turret. It is an autonomous robot that sees, thinks and shoots by itself.

How does an autonomous cannon that shoots faster than a human work?

Imagine: a rocket is flying at supersonic speed, just a couple of kilometers from the ship. Seconds to impact. The person will not have time to react. But Phalanx is.

The system is equipped with its own radar, which continuously scans the sky. As soon as it notices the target, it calculates the trajectory itself, turns around and opens fire from a 20-mm six-barrel Gatling cannon. The tempo is 4,500 rounds per minute. The target is covered by a barrage of projectiles that explode nearby, knocking down a rocket or setting it on fire.

All this happens without the participation of the crew — in a split second.

Raytheon upgrades the system for $205 million

The Pentagon has just awarded defense giant Raytheon a $205 million contract. This money will be used to upgrade and repair existing Phalanx systems. The work includes refurbishment, major repairs and the supply of related equipment. It is planned to complete everything by January 2029.

It's not just THAT. This is a confirmation: despite all the new lasers and rockets, Phalanx remains a reliable and necessary system.

Why is artillery needed even in the age of rockets?

High-tech threats require high-tech responses. But sometimes the simplest is the most effective. The cannon hits the area, does not depend on electronic interference and does not need complex guidance systems. She works when everything else is running out of time.

That is why, decades after its creation, Phalanx still stands at its combat post — like a steel guard who does not blink or get tired.

Sources

1. CHVVAKUSH — MK 15 Phalanx CIWS detailed specs and history
2. Integral Russia — Phalanx CIWS US Navy last line defense
3. Wikipedia (Russian) — MK 15 Phalanx CIWS overview

P-8A Poseidon with secret AAS radar patrols the Black Sea: new generation intelligence

The P-8A Poseidon and its role in naval intelligence

The US Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft, based on a modification of a civilian Boeing 737, was again spotted in a high—attention area over the Black Sea. This time, it was equipped with a rare and high-end intelligence system, highlighting the strategic importance of the mission. This aircraft is a key element of U.S. naval intelligence, providing control over vast waters and tracking the activity of potential adversaries.

AN/APS-154 AAS — "universal eye" under the fuselage

The central feature of this flight was the use of the Advanced Airborne Sensor (AAS) AN/APS-154, developed by Raytheon under conditions of strict secrecy. This system is a multifunctional radar module capable of solving a wide range of tasks.:

• Detection and tracking of submarines by footprints on the surface
• Identification and classification of surface ships
• High-precision coastal reconnaissance, including monitoring of military installations and movement of equipment

The AN/APS-154 combines Synthesized Aperture (SAR) and Moving Target Detection (GMTI) mode, making it one of the most powerful and secretive radars in the U.S. Navy's arsenal.

How the SMPDM mechanism works

A special mechanism is used to place the dimensional radar — the Special Mission Payload Deployment Mechanism (SMPDM). It is installed under the fuselage of the P-8A and lowers the AAS module away from the engines during flight, eliminating radio interference and widening the viewing angle. This allows the radar to operate with maximum efficiency, especially during low-altitude flights along the coast.

Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine first revealed the existence of SMPDM in 2019, confirming its testing on P-8 aircraft, which aroused widespread interest in the expert community.

The importance of patrolling the Black Sea

The regular flights of the P-8A with AN/APS-154 over the Black Sea demonstrate the US commitment to the security of NATO allies and the control of military activity in the region. Such missions allow real-time monitoring of the movement of Russian ships, especially near Crimea and along the coast of Ukraine, as well as identifying signs of preparations for a build-up of forces.

The presence of an advanced intelligence system enhances the operational superiority of the United States and increases the alliance's resilience in the face of hybrid threats.

Raytheon has received a $72 million contract to support the TOW missile guidance system in the US Army

Raytheon has received a new contract from the US Army worth $72 million. Raytheon will now support and maintain the advanced target detection system, ITAS. This is an important component for targeting TOW anti-tank missiles, which have long and reliably served the US Army.

The ITAS platform helps to accurately detect, track and hit armored targets. The work under the contract will ensure the smooth operation of this system in all conditions, including upgrades and maintenance.

Such a contract is a sign that even long—standing developments like TOW remain in the spotlight and continue to play a key role in defense, especially given the importance of anti-tank capabilities on the modern battlefield.

Raytheon has received a $258 million U.S. Navy contract for the development and production of SM-2 missiles

Tucson, Arizona-based Raytheon has signed a major new contract with the U.S. Navy worth about $258 million. Under this contract, Raytheon will be engaged in the engineering development, production and refinement of Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) Block IIICU All Up Round missiles.

The SM-2 is considered one of the main anti-aircraft protection systems for US Navy ships. These missiles are effective for repelling attacks from enemy aircraft and anti-ship missiles at ranges up to 90 nautical miles and altitudes up to 20 kilometers.

Work under the contract is expected to be completed by September 2031. About 72% of the work will be carried out in Tucson, while the rest will be carried out at facilities in Connecticut, Great Britain, Utah and other places. The contract includes options to expand financing with a possible total of up to $263 million.

This project is in addition to the $344 million contract received by Raytheon in April this year, which was related to the integration and testing of the same SM-2 missile system. All of this highlights the continued interest and growing role of the SM-2 system as a key defense echelon for U.S. Navy ships.

SM-2 missiles are successfully used not only in the United States, but also by allies around the world, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and other countries. This complex remains an important element of a multi-level marine protection system for several more decades.

Raytheon unveils Improved MTS-A HD Multispectral Guidance System for U.S. Navy Marine Helicopters

Raytheon, which is part of RTX, recently revealed an updated version of its multispectral guidance system, the MTS-A HD. This new system is designed to help U.S. Navy helicopter pilots see even more clearly and aim more accurately, especially when missions take place in difficult conditions, such as poor visibility or at night.

The MTS-A HD is an improved sensor suite that complements the long—used MTS systems. Currently, such systems are installed on more than 400 helicopters of the US Navy, and thanks to the new option, the work of the crews will become even more efficient and safer.

This upgrade will give pilots an advantage when performing search and rescue operations, reconnaissance, or any other tasks where high accuracy and clear imaging are important. As a result, this will help to increase the combat effectiveness and protection of personnel.

Raytheon has improved the "vision" of marine helicopters: new multispectral guidance MTS-A HD is introduced

 

Raytheon, part of RTX Corporation, has raised the bar for surveillance and guidance systems on marine helicopters. At the exhibition, they presented an updated version of their proven multispectral guidance system (MTS), the new MTS-A HD model. The main goal of this update is to help U.S. Navy helicopters better "see" and aim more accurately in a complex and often unstable marine environment.

What has changed? The new MTS-A HD system boasted several improvements at once. First, there is increased image clarity — operators now get a more detailed and clear picture, which is crucial when performing complex tasks such as search and rescue, reconnaissance or weapon guidance. Secondly, the accuracy of guidance has been improved, which directly affects the effectiveness of combat operations. And, thirdly, the system has become even more flexible in operation.

The key advantage of MTS-A HD is its versatility. It is designed as a modular solution compatible with all current and future platforms of the US Navy marine helicopters. This means that it can be easily integrated into different types of vehicles, from anti-submarine to search and rescue. Moreover, Raytheon positions its system as cost—effective - it allows upgrading existing helicopters without requiring a complete replacement of complex and expensive electronics.

As a result, the MTS-A HD is not just a new camera, but a major step forward in providing naval pilots and operators with superior visual control and tactical advantage in the water area.

America is building a "Golden Dome": the United States launched purchases of $ 151 billion for a super-powerful missile defense system

 The United States has officially turned on the first gear in the race for a new era of missile defense — the country has launched a procurement procedure for the incredible amount of 151 billion dollars for a program called the Golden Dome. Does it sound like fiction? And this is real politics. The goal is not just to intercept a couple of missiles, but to build a large—scale, all—weather, all-pervasive system that can protect the entire continent from a wide variety of threats, from ballistic missiles to hypersonic projectiles.

What is the Golden Dome? So far, this is not one specific system, but a large-scale initiative that combines advanced technologies of the future: lasers, interceptor satellites, artificial intelligence for trajectory analysis, hypersonic sensors and much more. According to the idea, this will not just be an "umbrella" over the United States, but a multi-level shield capable of operating at all stages of the rocket's flight — from launch to the final approach to the target.

The money will be used for everything from R&D (scientific research and development work) before purchasing components, testing, and deploying new systems. It is already known that the project involves both traditional defense giants — Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman — and new players working with space sensors and AI.

Why now? The situation is heating up. China and Russia are actively testing hypersonic weapons, North Korea continues to launch, and threats are becoming increasingly difficult to predict. Older systems like GMD or Aegis can no longer handle it alone. We need something new - faster, smarter, more reliable. So we decided to build a "dome".

Interestingly, the name "Golden Dome" intentionally refers to the Israeli "Iron Dome", but with a difference in scale — there it was about protection from Qassam missiles, and here it was about survival at the superpower level. Just imagine: a network of satellites in space that see the rocket launch in real time, transmit data to earth, where AI instantly calculates the trajectory, and then an interceptor is launched — all in a matter of minutes.

However, critics are already grumbling: $151 billion is a lot of money. Will the project turn into a "bottomless barrel"? Yes, there is a risk. But the Pentagon believes that it is better to overpay now than to be left without protection later.

So the Golden Dome is not just a program. This is a strategic challenge for the future. And if everything goes according to plan, in 10-15 years that invisible but impenetrable shield may indeed appear over America.

Pentagon gave Raytheon 32.5 million for the production of new missile systems for the Marines

MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability)

On July 24, 2025, the Pentagon officially announced that Raytheon Missiles and Defense had received a $32.5 million contract, and this was a serious bid for the future. The money will be used to support the MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability) program, a medium—range interception system that the US Marine Corps is actively developing.

What exactly did you buy? 44 sets of so—called LLI products with a long production time. Simply put, these are the key parts and components that take a long time to make, but without them you cannot assemble a full-fledged system. Now they are being purchased for future use, so that they can quickly launch mass production of MRIC without delay.

In addition, the contract includes an additional amount of LLI — some will be used for spare parts, some for the modernization of already delivered prototypes. That is, not just new systems, but the refinement of old ones so that everything works clearly and according to a single standard.

What does it mean? And the fact that the Marines are seriously preparing for a new generation of air defense. MRIC is a step towards autonomy: the ability to turn around quickly, detect a threat and destroy it at medium range, regardless of army or air force structures. Raytheon, as always, is at the center of events — and, apparently, we will hear more about MRIC in the coming years.

Lockheed Martin has delivered the Minimum Combat Use Package (MEP) of the eighth THAAD battery to the US government

 Lockheed Martin has delivered the Minimum Combat Use Package (MEP) of the eighth battery of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system to the US government. This package includes three launchers and a fire control unit that will be integrated with the AN/TPY-2 radar manufactured by Raytheon Technologies. The remaining equipment is scheduled to be delivered later this summer. The delivery of the MEP significantly enhances the U.S. Army's ability to protect strategically important facilities and populations from the growing threats of ballistic missiles around the world.

THAAD is a combat—proven system capable of intercepting and destroying ballistic missiles at medium and high altitudes, both inside and outside the Earth's atmosphere. The system uses the through-and-through kinetic principle and demonstrates 100% efficiency in test interceptions. According to Don Golightly, Lockheed Martin's vice president of integrated missile defense, the eighth battery will significantly enhance the U.S. Army's ability to respond to evolving threats, ensuring the security of the country and its allies.

Lockheed Martin has been the main contractor for the THAAD program since 1987, and the first battery was commissioned in 2008. The order for the eighth battery was placed in 2022, reflecting the continued demand for a multi-layered missile defense system in the face of global security challenges.

Raytheon has received a $536 million contract to upgrade SPY-6 radars for US Navy destroyers

SPY-6 radar antenna arrays

Raytheon, part of RTX Corporation, has received a $536 million contract from the U.S. Navy for the production and modernization of the SPY-6 family of radars. This contract is a continuation of an earlier agreement and includes the integration and support of production, as well as the modernization of the Flight IIA destroyers using option (V)4.

"SPY-6 is the most advanced radar in the U.S. Navy, providing ships with a new level of protection against evolving threats," said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. She stressed that this contract reflects the important role of SPY-6 technology in the long-term technological roadmap of the US Navy.

To date, the SPY-6 system has already been installed on two new ships of the US Navy, and in 2025 it is planned to equip three more ships that will undergo various stages of testing. It is expected that the work under the contract will be completed by May 2026.

The SPY-6 radar provides improved detection and tracking of air and sea targets, as well as effective counteraction to modern threats, including hypersonic missiles and sophisticated electronic warfare systems. The modernization of the Flight IIA destroyers will significantly increase the combat capabilities of the fleet and strengthen the US defense capability at sea.

Raytheon has received a major contract for the supply of AIM-9X-4 Block II missiles for the US Navy and Air Force and allies

AIM-9X-4 Block II

Raytheon, a division of RTX Corporation, has received a significant contract from the US Navy for the production of a new batch of AIM-9X-4 Block II All Up Round (AUR) air-to-air missiles. The deal includes the delivery of 492 missiles to the U.S. Navy, 456 to the U.S. Air Force, and 808 to partners in the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, underscoring the important role of this missile in modern air combat for both the U.S. armed forces and allies.

The AIM-9X-4 Block II is the latest version of the Sidewinder missile family, equipped with a highly sensitive infrared homing head with improved signal processing and counter-countermeasures. The missile is capable of capturing targets at high angles and has high maneuverability thanks to the thrust vector control system.

In addition, the AIM-9X-4 supports the "capture after launch" (LOAL) function, which allows it to hit targets outside the direct line of sight of the pilot, which is especially important in modern dynamic aerial combat. The missile integrates with various platforms, including the F-35, F/A-18, F-15EX and F-16 fighter jets.

Raytheon supplied upgraded AN/TPY-2 radar for missile defense system: protection against hypersonic strike

AN/TPY-2 radar

Raytheon Technologies has announced the first delivery of an upgraded AN/TPY-2 radar to the United States Missile Defense Agency (MDA). This radar is a key element of the missile defense system and is designed to detect, track and track ballistic and advanced hypersonic targets at a considerable distance.

A special feature of the new radar variant is the use of gallium nitride (GaN) — a modern semiconductor material that provides significantly greater power and range compared to previous technologies. This allows the system to  detect the threat earlier, which makes it possible to launch the interceptor in time to destroy the hypersonic missile  before its active maneuver begins, when defeat becomes an extremely difficult task.

The AN/TPY-2 radar is already used as part of the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) systems and integrated into the global U.S. missile defense network. Upgrading with GaN makes it even more effective against rapidly evolving threats, especially from countries developing hypersonic weapons.

The United States continues to build up technologies capable of resisting the new generation of weapons. This delivery is an important step in ensuring strategic security and increasing the chances of successful interception at the earliest stages of an attack.

Qatar purchases the FS-LIDS anti-drone system from the United States in the amount of 1 billion dollars

 

FS-LIDS

Government The United States has announced the conclusion of a major defense contract with Qatar for the supply of an integrated anti-drone system Raytheon Fixed Site Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aircraft System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS). The agreement amounts to 1 billion dollars, making Qatar the first international buyer of this advanced technology.

FS-LIDS is a multi—level system designed to detect, track, and neutralize small drones (UAS), including light drones used for both reconnaissance and terrorist purposes. The system combines radars, electronic warfare equipment, optoelectronic sensors and kinetic methods of destruction, providing reliable protection of strategically important objects.

This acquisition is part of Qatar's efforts to modernize its **national air defense system**, especially amid the growing threats from unmanned aerial vehicles in the Middle East region. Recent years have shown how actively drones are used in military and terrorist operations, starting with attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia and ending with their large-scale use in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

The United States positions this contract as an important step in strengthening its strategic partnership with one of its key allies in the Persian Gulf. He also highlights the growing interest of the countries of the region in modern anti-drone systems, which are becoming increasingly relevant in the context of evolving security threats.

The delivery of the FS-LIDS system will allow Qatar to significantly increase the level of protection of its military bases, government facilities and civil aviation infrastructure from potential attacks using small UAVs.

The United States is strengthening its counteraction to drones: aircraft carriers are receiving a new generation of secret weapons

 

Coyote interceptor from Raytheon

With the threat from unmanned aerial vehicles on the rise, especially in the form of attacking drone swarms, the U.S. Navy is implementing a new air defense system to protect its carrier strike groups. New secret Coyote interceptors from Raytheon and Roadrunner-M from Anduril, designed to combat small and medium-sized UAVs, are being adopted.

These interceptor missiles are equipped with turbojet engines, which allows them not only to maneuver quickly, but also to hover in the air, waiting for targets in the carrier group's area of responsibility. This ability makes them effective in conditions of intense saturation of the airspace with a variety of targets.

A special feature of the new systems is **the possibility of reuse**: after completing a combat mission, some of the interceptors can return to the ship, ** land, refuel and be launched again**, which significantly increases the economic and tactical effectiveness of their use.

According to sources, both types of interceptors have already been tested in real combat conditions, participating in operations with the US Army and the Special Operations Command. The use of these technologies could become an important element of the Pentagon's strategy in dealing with drones in future conflicts.

The U.S. Army is launching a $4.2 billion program to develop a new generation of surveillance balloons

 

Tethered Aerostat Radar System

The US Army has announced the selection of ten defense companies to participate in a competition to develop the innovative Persistent Surveillance System – Tethered (PSS-T) program. This $4.2billion project aims to create the next generation of lighter-than-air reconnaissance balloons. The program is designed for 10 years and is designed to provide the military with advanced monitoring and surveillance technologies.

Among the participants of the competition were such well-known companies as Raytheon, QinetiQ, Skyship Services, Advanced Technology Systems and Thunderbolt. They were joined by Leidos, Elevated Technologies, Mission Solutions Group, TCOM and Tyonek Technical Services. Each of these firms has unique competencies in designing, integrating systems, and supporting balloon missions, making them key players in the implementation of this initiative.

The goal of PSS-T is to develop balloons that can effectively perform the tasks of continuous monitoring of territories, providing real-time data. These systems will become an important element in ensuring security and operational control on the ground. Lighter-than-air balloons have a number of advantages over other surveillance platforms, including long battery life and relatively low cost of operation.

The project is expected to include several stages: from conceptual design to testing and deployment of ready-made systems. The participants of the competition will present their proposals for improving the characteristics of balloons, such as altitude, platform stability and sensor equipment capabilities.

Experts point out that the development of surveillance technologies using balloons could be a turning point for the US Army. This will strengthen the country's position in the field of intelligence and provide new standards for monitoring enemy territories.

Raytheon unveils DeepStrike and New Training Rocket at Project Converge Capstone 5

DeepStrike Autonomous Launcher

Raytheon Corporation demonstrated its latest innovations at the Capstone 5 Project Converge event, which took place this month. Two novelties were in the spotlight: the DeepStrike autonomous launcher and the application for a new training rocket. These developments underscore the company's commitment to leadership in military technology and autonomous systems.

DeepStrike is a revolutionary autonomous launcher designed to improve the efficiency and accuracy of rocket launches. This system is able to independently select targets and carry out launches without the need for constant operator intervention. This autonomy allows you to significantly reduce reaction time and increase combat readiness.

In addition to DeepStrike, Raytheon has submitted its application for a new training rocket. This missile is designed to train military specialists and allows them to conduct training in conditions as close as possible to real combat operations. The training missile is equipped with modern guidance and control systems, which makes it an ideal tool for training highly qualified personnel.

The Capstone 5 Project Converge event has become a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and sharing experiences between leading companies in the defense industry. Raytheon used this opportunity to present its new products and confirm its leadership in the industry.

Raytheon's developments are of significant strategic importance. Autonomous systems such as DeepStrike can significantly change approaches to combat operations, increasing their effectiveness and reducing risks for military personnel. Training missiles, in turn, play a key role in training specialists, which also contributes to strengthening defense capabilities.

Despite its impressive achievements, Raytheon also faces challenges. The implementation of autonomous systems requires careful verification and adaptation to real conditions. In addition, security and ethical issues related to the use of autonomous weapons must be taken into account.

U.S. Navy Awards Raytheon $333 Million Contract for New SM-6 Block 1A Anti-Aircraft Missiles

The United States Navy has awarded Raytheon a substantial $333 million contract for the production of new SM-6 Block 1A anti-aircraft missiles. This significant investment underscores the Navy's commitment to enhancing its air defense capabilities and ensuring the protection of its assets at sea.

The SM-6 Block 1A missile is a versatile and advanced weapon system that stands out for its multifunctional capabilities. Often referred to as "three missiles in one," the SM-6 combines the abilities to conduct air warfare, anti-ship warfare, and missile defense in a single platform. This unique feature makes it an invaluable asset for the Navy, providing comprehensive protection against a wide range of threats.

Production of the SM-6 Block 1A missiles will be carried out at several of Raytheon's facilities across the United States. The key locations involved in the manufacturing process include Tucson, Arizona; Huntsville, Alabama; Andover, Massachusetts; and Diné, New Mexico. This distributed production approach leverages the company's extensive infrastructure and expertise, ensuring efficient and high-quality manufacturing.

The project is expected to be completed by 2027, marking a significant milestone in the Navy's efforts to modernize its missile defense systems. The SM-6 Block 1A missiles will play a crucial role in enhancing the Navy's operational capabilities, providing advanced protection against airborne, surface, and missile threats.

"The SM-6 Block 1A missile represents a significant leap forward in our air defense capabilities," said a spokesperson for the U.S. Navy. "Its versatility and advanced features make it an essential component of our naval defense strategy, ensuring that we are well-equipped to protect our assets and personnel in an increasingly complex threat environment."

Raytheon, a leading defense contractor, has a long-standing partnership with the U.S. Navy, providing cutting-edge technologies and solutions to meet the evolving needs of the military. The awarding of this contract further solidifies this partnership and highlights Raytheon's commitment to supporting the Navy's mission.

"We are proud to continue our support for the U.S. Navy with the production of the SM-6 Block 1A missiles," said a representative from Raytheon. "This contract underscores our dedication to delivering innovative and effective solutions that enhance the Navy's operational capabilities and ensure the safety of its personnel."

The SM-6 Block 1A missile's ability to perform multiple missions from a single platform makes it a cost-effective and efficient solution for the Navy. By integrating air warfare, anti-ship warfare, and missile defense capabilities, the SM-6 provides a comprehensive defense system that can adapt to various threat scenarios.

In conclusion, the U.S. Navy's $333 million contract with Raytheon for the production of new SM-6 Block 1A anti-aircraft missiles represents a significant investment in the future of naval defense. The SM-6's multifunctional capabilities make it a critical asset for the Navy, providing advanced protection against a wide range of threats. As production progresses at Raytheon's facilities, the Navy will be well-positioned to enhance its air defense capabilities and ensure the safety of its assets and personnel in the years to come.