At the end of June, the US Navy's EA-6B Prowler tactical jamming aircraft completed its final flight from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island as part of a sunset celebration commemorating the retirement of the aircraft. The aircraft, which was in service for 45 years, was retired last week with a three day commemoration at Whidbey Island where it took its final flight. Read more >>

The cornerstone of the U.S. amphibious program is the Marine & Land Systems Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC).  The LCAC vehicles are nearing the end of their service lives. The Ship to Shore Connector is set to replace the LCAC. However, delivery of the first SCC isn’t scheduled until 2017. The oldest LCACs are set for retirement this year 2015. Therefore, the Navy has been forced to exercise their contract option for delivery of two LCACs. Read more >>

Raytheon’s Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) is a leading defense weapon for high and low interception, increased range, and protection against anti-ship missiles. Through a USD$109,583,490 contract, the SM-2 missiles will primarily be built at Raytheon’s Camden location. Other plants include Massachusetts, California, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Maryland, Oregon, Arizona, and Florida.  The Navy hopes to expand from five ships to more than thirty-five ships equipped with Raytheon’s missile technology. A spokesperson from the Navy stated, “This effort is steeped in fleet requirements, focusing on delivering capability to support urgent operational needs in targeted areas of responsibility.” Read more >>

Comtech EF Data Corp has received a USD$6.4 million contract extension from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) for adaptive coding capability. Read more >>

Austal USA shipyard recently conducted a keel laying ceremony for the future USS Omaha, the sixth Independence-variant littoral combat ship (LCS). Read more >>