LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 21 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy has contracted Raytheon to provide upgrades on a computer-controlled weapons system that defends naval vessels from enemy threats.
U.S. company Raytheon was contracted by the Navy to support upgrades for the Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems. Under the $259.9 million deal, Raytheon will overhaul 40 of the sea-based Phalanx variants and 17 Centurion Land-Based systems.
The Phalanx technology includes a radar and 20 mm gun designed to automatically counter enemy threats in a computer controlled system. Officials say the contract also includes spares parts and other technical support services.
"The capability of our world-class Ku-band radar coupled with Phalanx's thermal imager provides unparalleled self-defense protection," Todd Callahan, Raytheon Close-In Defense Solutions program director, said in a statement.
"Additionally, Phalanx gives commanders at sea and on the ground the ability to interface with other systems to defeat targets, save lives and prevent damage."
