With the responsibility of creating directed-energy lasers, long-range rocket systems, overhead defenses, and more, the Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space oversaw the endeavor. In less than 30 days, the Army is anticipated to get the counter-drone bombs through the use of a process known as quick acquisition authority. It may take months or years to use other, more conventional methods.

The Low, Slow, Small, Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defeat System, or LIDS, is how the Army now uses various Coyote systems in both mobile and fixed configurations. However, this most recent acquisition indicates a rise in both demand and manufacturing. It follows a contracting notice outlining the military’s intention to acquire and use hundreds of launchers and radars connected to thousands of Coyote interceptors, as well as thousands of interceptors themselves, during the course of the next five fiscal years.

“The government notice stated that the U.S. Army must develop, produce, and maintain countermeasures against enemy armed and intelligence-gathering UASs operating at various speeds and altitudes, which are targeting the interests of the United States and their allies both domestically and internationally.”

The agreement with RTX was signed just a few days before extremists supported by Iran used a one-way attack drone at the Tower 22 base in Jordan, which is close to the Syrian border, to kill three troops and damage several more. The attack highlighted the urgent need to combat drones, which are very inexpensive and easily manufactured using off-the-shelf parts.

In terms of defense-related revenue, RTX, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, is the second-biggest defense contractor globally. Defense News’ Top 100 study indicates that the Virginia-based corporation produced $39 billion in 2022 and $41.8 billion in 2021.