Americas
Boeing won a $2 billion modification for E-7A Rapid Prototyping. The modification is for the definitization of the UCA. Work will be performed in Tukwila, Washington, and is expected to be completed by August 28, 2029. There are no funds being obligated at the time of award. Hanscom Air Force Base, Bedford, Massachusetts, is the contracting activity. The deal represents a significant milestone for both parties, who have been working to finalize terms since an initial agreement was signed in 2023. The path to contract finalization was fraught with challenges. The Air Force initially faced difficulties in aligning its requirements with those of the United Kingdom, which has also acquired E-7s. Moreover, Boeing was under pressure to avoid the financial pitfalls that have plagued its defense division. These factors, coupled with disagreements over pricing, led to protracted negotiations and a temporary halt to procurement funding for the program.
The Canadian Department of Defense will open high-rise accommodation for warfighters at the Esquimalt base on Vancouver Island. The $120.1 million project covers 31,700 square meters (7.8 acres) of land and will consist of up to 480 single occupancy rooms, according to Ottawa’s press release. The center’s facilities will include administrative spaces, a postal hub, and coffee shops. Additional infrastructure will consist of a 400-person mess hall as well as a dining area and galley that can serve up to 700 soldiers.
Middle East & Africa
Elbit Systems was awarded $130 million to supply its Iron Fist Active Protection System (APS) to BAE Systems Hägglunds, which will integrate the system into the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle for an unnamed European country. Work for the contract will take place over five and a half years.
Europe
On August 9, 2024, the United States State Department of Defense announced a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Norway, involving the provision of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and related equipment. The deal, which is valued at approximately $580 million, has been certified by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) and has now been presented to Congress for final approval.
Asia-Pacific
Canberra and Anduril Industries have signed an agreement to expedite the Royal Australian Navy’s Ghost Shark autonomous submarine production. The framework stipulates $26 million of investment provided by the government and the company to transition associated prototype developments to production.
