Innovating at Raytheon: Harnessing Cutting-Edge Technology for Tomorrow’s Solutions
As the battlefield evolves, defense systems must adapt accordingly.
In the Middle East, protecting valuable assets such as oil fields and shipping lanes requires ongoing advancements in defense technology. Raytheon exemplifies this commitment by enhancing its systems to ensure they integrate the latest innovations. Their weaponry is increasingly potent, featuring rocket boosters, high-tech sensors, and sophisticated algorithms to give commanders vital time for decision-making.
“We understand that the landscape is always changing,” stated Chris Davis, president of Raytheon International Inc. for UAE operations. “Being adaptive is crucial.”
Consider the combat-proven Patriot Integrated Air and Missile Defense System, in use by 13 nations, including Gulf Cooperation Council members. Serving as a premier solution for lower-tier protection of forward operating bases (FOBs), the Patriot system is continually upgraded to incorporate cutting-edge technologies.
In 2016, Raytheon introduced a new prototype radar for potential integration with the Patriot system. Utilizing gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor technology, this radar provides 360-degree protection while significantly reducing operational costs. This innovation has received export approval for all Patriot partner nations.
Another reliable technology is the Phalanx close-in weapon system, which effectively defends numerous surface combatant ships. Its success led the U.S. Army to deploy a land-based version for protecting critical bases in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Currently, Phalanx is part of the U.S. Army’s Counter Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar system (C-RAM). It was highlighted in a Washington Post article discussing its effectiveness in safeguarding U.S. military bases against threats such as the Chinese-made 107mm rockets launched by Taliban fighters.
“Our expertise with Phalanx is a significant reason why the company is viewed as a global leader in forward operating base defense,” noted Davis.
Raytheon engineers continue to focus on the future of FOB protection. They are collaborating with the U.S. Army on the Accelerated Improved Interceptor Initiative (AI3), designed to detect and neutralize rockets, mortars, unmanned systems, and cruise missiles during flight.
“The success of AI3 exemplifies a strong partnership between government and industry,” remarked Mike Van Rassen, the U.S. Army’s program director for C-RAM.
Another advancing technology to watch is the AMRAAM air-to-air missile. A newly developed ground-launched version is capable of intercepting threats at greater distances and altitudes than ever before.
In August 2016, Raytheon and its international partner Kongsberg successfully conducted a flight test of the extended-range variant of AMRAAM from the NASAMS launcher. The AMRAAM-ER missile notably enhances the NASAMS system’s engagement capabilities, with a 50% increase in maximum range and a 70% increase in maximum altitude.
“Several Middle Eastern nations are considering NASAMS for safeguarding high-value assets, and the recent success of the AMRAAM-ER makes it even more appealing,” stated Davis. “The system integrates seamlessly with Patriot as well as the Hawk Air Defense system, which is driving increasing interest.”
NASAMS is currently operational in Norway, Finland, Spain, the Netherlands, and another undisclosed country. In 2014, Oman became the system’s seventh customer and the first in the Gulf region.
This document does not contain Technical Data or Technology controlled under either the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the U.S. Export Administration Regulations. E17-4W4M
