Tucson-based Raytheon Land & Air Defense Systems has clinched a contract worth $322.5m to manufacture tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided (TOW) 2B missiles for the US Army.
The award is part of an ongoing commitment to enhance the US Army's capabilities and contribute to global security partnerships. The contract shows Raytheon's role as a key player in bolstering defence measures while aiding international allies.
With 22.0% of the North American missiles and missile defence systems market, Raytheon Technologies Corp is projected to be the second largest shareholder in the region, according to GlobalData's "The Global Missiles & Missile Defense Systems Market 2023-2033" report.
The scope of work for this contract will be carried out at Raytheon's Tucson facility—with an estimated completion date of September 30, 2026.
The fiscal year 2021 and 2023 procurement funds, totalling $322.5m, were committed at the time of contract award. This financial support reflects the US Army's investment in defence systems to ensure readiness and effectiveness on the battlefield.
Furthermore, including tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided (TOW) 2B missiles in the latest US security assistance package to Ukraine highlights the strategic significance of this advanced weaponry.
The TOW missile system, known for its accuracy and precision, will be integrated with the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, which has seen extensive deployment through donation, gifting, and leasing programmes.
This year, the US donated 59 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles alongside 590 TOW anti-tank missiles in the 30th military aid package to Ukraine following the invasion of Russian soldiers into Ukrainian territory.
Historically, nations such as Bahrain, Canada, Lebanon, Oman, and Saudi Arabia have requested or sought to purchase TOW 2B missiles from the US.
The Army Contracting Command, based at Redstone Arsenal in Alabama, facilitated the contract award process, further exemplifying the collaborative nature of national defence initiatives.
As the company continues to provide technology and engineering, the tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided 2B missiles stand is poised to shape the future of Bradley Fighting vehicle capabilities worldwide.
