Portsmouth, R.I. – October 12, 2026 -- Raytheon, an RTX business, has won a contract from the Office of Naval Research (ONR) to develop software-driven target-detection upgrades for naval radar systems, with work running through 2031.
Raytheon targets longer range, higher sensitivity and better efficiency
Raytheon's Advanced Technology team will develop and evaluate advanced signal and data-processing algorithms. It will also integrate targeted software upgrades intended to extend detection range, increase sensitivity and improve radar-system efficiency.
The enhancements will undergo laboratory and field testing to validate performance and operational use. Raytheon is preparing them for transition into its SPY-6 family of radars and other future naval radars.
Software-first approach aims at fielded radar fleets
Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon, said software-first upgrades are among the fastest and most cost-effective ways to deliver mission-ready capability on fielded radar systems. He said the upgrades will let naval operators detect smaller objects at greater distances and classify targets more quickly.
Program builds on earlier ONR initiatives ASPIRE and STORM
The contract continues Raytheon's work in software-defined apertures. It draws on prior ONR initiatives, including ASPIRE and STORM, which established foundational hardware and software advances for next-generation radar capability.
Work will be split between Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Raytheon will carry out the contract at its facilities in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and Andover, Massachusetts, through 2031. The source does not disclose the contract value.