Lockheed Martin Secures AEGIS Upgrade Deal with US and Australian Navies
Lockheed Martin has secured a contract valued at $79.3 million to upgrade the AEGIS weapon systems utilized by the U.S. Navy and Australia. This modification contract encompasses AEGIS modernization (AMOD) and the production requirements for new guided missile destroyers. This agreement combines procurements for the U.S. government (84%) and the government of the Commonwealth of Australia (16%) under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) initiative. The tasks outlined in this contract are anticipated to be finalized by March 2025.
The Royal Australian Navy has commissioned three Hobart-class destroyers, which feature the Aegis Baseline 7.1 Refresh 2 version as the foundation of their combat systems, with the last one entering service in 2020. The Australian Government has announced that the upcoming class of nine Hunter-class frigates, set to be constructed over the next decade, will also be equipped with Aegis systems but will utilize a tactical interface created by Saab Australia. This system has been ‘Australianised’ to enhance capabilities against non-aviation threats.
The Aegis Combat System is a comprehensive naval integrated weaponry system designed by the Missile and Surface Radar Division of RCA, and is currently manufactured by Lockheed Martin. It employs advanced computer and radar technologies to track and direct munitions to eliminate adversary targets. The ACS consists of the Aegis Weapon System (AWS), the rapid-response element of the Aegis Anti-Aircraft Warfare (AAW) capability, as well as the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) and the Mark 41 Vertical Launch System.
The U.S. Navy currently operates Aegis-equipped Ticonderoga-class cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and has placed orders for additional units of the latter. It is expected to incorporate the latest Aegis Baseline 10 on its forthcoming FFG(X) vessels. The Aegis system is also utilized by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, the Spanish Navy, the Royal Norwegian Navy, the Republic of Korea Navy, and the Royal Australian Navy. Over 100 Aegis-equipped vessels have been deployed, and it is integral to NATO’s European missile defense architecture.
