The US Naval Surface Warfare Center has awarded a contract to BAE Systems to provide technical services to maintain the weapon control system for the Tomahawk cruise missile programme.

BAE will provide testing and evaluation, analysis and technical documentation, and support for the navy’s command and control systems that handle preparation, test and launch of Tomahawk missiles from surface ships.

BAE maritime programmes vice-president Steve Metz said the contract would help ensure readiness and sustainment of a vital weapon system for the navy.

The $14.8m contract includes an initial one-year term plus four option years.

Work will be carried out at the company’s facility and at navy facilities in Virginia, US.