The SPY-6(V)4 radar variant features four array faces, providing a 360° situational awareness. Credit: RTX.

Raytheon has received a contract worth $536m from the US Navy to enhance the fleet’s radar capabilities with SPY-6 family of air and missile defence radars.

This contract represents a continuation of the prior integration and production support agreement and includes the upgrade of Arleigh Burke-class (DDG 51) Flight IIA guided-missile destroyers with the advanced SPY-6(V)4 variant.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

The sole source award to Raytheon will facilitate ongoing support for the SPY-6 radar systems, encompassing a spectrum of services such as training, engineering, installation on ships, integration, testing, and critical software enhancements.

These efforts aim to bolster the radars’ performance and extend their defensive reach against various threats.

The SPY-6 radar is currently operational on two US Navy ships, with plans for installation on three more vessels progressing towards testing phases set for 2025.

Looking ahead, the SPY-6 is projected to be deployed across an excess of 60 Navy ships within the next ten years, significantly strengthening the Navy’s defensive capabilities against air, surface, and ballistic missile threats.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The completion of the work stipulated in this contract is anticipated by May 2026, marking a crucial milestone in the Navy’s modernisation effort and Raytheon’s commitment to supporting national defence.

Raytheon Naval Power president Barbara Borgonovi said: “SPY-6 is the most advanced radar in the US naval fleet, providing ships a new level of defence against evolving threats.

“This contract highlights the essential role of this technology in supporting the US Navy’s technology roadmap for several decades to come.”

The SPY-6(V)4 radar variant features four array faces, providing a 360° situational awareness. Currently, two Flight IIA destroyers, Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124) and Patrick Gallagher (DDG 127), are under construction at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works.

Naval Technology Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Naval Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now