Article Posted on : - Jun 11, 2012

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) launches a Tomahawk cruise missile to support Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn. A US Navy photo.

TUCSON, ARIZONA (BNS): The US Navy has awarded Raytheon Company a $338 million contract for the Tomahawk Block IV tactical cruise missile.

The contract, which was announced by the Department of Defence on June 7, includes replenishment of weapons used during Operation ODYSSEY DAWN and procurement for the government's fiscal year 2012.

The contract calls for Raytheon to build and deliver the Tomahawk Block IV cruise missiles, and provide warranties, flight test and life-cycle support. Production is scheduled to begin this year.

The Tomahawk Block IV is a surface-and submarine-launched, precision-strike, stand-off weapon. It is designed for long-range precision-strike missions against high-value and heavily defended targets, such as integrated air defense systems.

The missile employs a two-way satellite datalink that enables a strike controller to flex the Tomahawk in flight to preprogrammed alternate targets or redirect it to a new target.

This targeting flexibility includes the capability to loiter over the battlefield and await a more critical target. The Tomahawk Block IV has a range of more than 1,000 nautical miles (1,150 statute miles).