Army awards $311M for Javelin replenishment; LaPlante teases further 'demand signal'

The Army has awarded a $311 million contract to Raytheon Missiles and Defense and Lockheed Martin for the delivery of more than 1,800 Javelin anti-tank systems to replenish those that have been sent from U.S. stocks to support Ukraine in its fight against an ongoing Russian invasion.

Pentagon acquisition chief Bill LaPlante said in a statement that the award is a “great example of our continued commitment to strengthening our domestic industrial base while supporting our allies and partners.”

LaPlante said industry should expect to see “a strong, persistent demand signal” as the United States continues to replenish its weapons stocks.

The procurement is part of the Ukraine supplemental appropriation granted by Congress.

“This award demonstrates the Army’s ability to use the new authorities given to us by Congress to acquire critical capabilities for our Soldiers, allies, and partners rapidly and responsibly,” said Army acquisition chief Doug Bush.

The award was made to Raytheon and Lockheed’s Javelin Joint Venture, which the Pentagon says has produced more than 50,000 Javelin missiles and more than 12,000 reusable command launch units.

“Javelin is expected to remain in the U.S. weapon arsenal until 2050 and is subject to continual upgrades to support evolving operational needs,” the Pentagon said.