Aegis upgrade for destroyers, cruisers

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TEWKSBURY, Mass., Aug. 6 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy has awarded Raytheon Co. a $13.7 million contract to upgrade the Aegis weapons system for several destroyers and cruisers.

Under the Aegis modernization baseline contract for Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Ticonderoga-class cruisers, Raytheon will implement various ordnance alterations to enhance the weapons system's tracking performance and missile communication capabilities.

Raytheon said the upgrades will improve radio frequency signal generation, allow missile data downlink for ballistic missile defense operations and enable operation with current missile configurations.

"These upgrades will strengthen the capabilities of Aegis, improving the reliability and effectiveness of this frontline weapons system," said Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems' John Kelly, director of Sensor Systems. "Raytheon continues its legacy of radar systems expertise, serving a critical role in the modernization of Aegis and helping the Navy to remain ahead of sea-based threats."

The contract follows a recent $59.2 million Navy award to Raytheon, under which the company will procure critical Aegis components for DDG 114 and DDG 115 future Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.