Who Makes Tomahawk Cruise Missiles

The development and production of Tomahawk cruise missiles involve several key players in the defense industry. Here's a breakdown of the companies involved in the manufacture of these advanced missiles.

Prime Contractor: Raytheon Technologies

Raytheon Technologies, a leading American defense contractor, is the primary manufacturer of Tomahawk cruise missiles. The company's Missiles & Defense division, which includes the former Raytheon Missile Systems business, is responsible for designing, developing, and producing the Tomahawk missile system.

Subcontractors and Suppliers

Several subcontractors and suppliers contribute to the production of Tomahawk cruise missiles. Some of these companies include:

• Northrop Grumman: Provides the missile's guidance system, including the radar and terrain-reference systems.
• Boeing: Supplies the missile's airframe and structural components.
• Lockheed Martin: Contributes to the development of the missile's software and electronics.
• General Dynamics: Provides the missile's rocket motor and other propulsion components.
• BAE Systems: Supplies the missile's seeker and targeting systems.

Manufacturing Facilities

The production of Tomahawk cruise missiles involves several manufacturing facilities across the United States. Some of the key locations include:

• Raytheon Technologies' Tucson, Arizona facility: Serves as the primary manufacturing site for Tomahawk missiles.
• Northrop Grumman's Rolling Meadows, Illinois facility: Produces the missile's guidance system components.
• Boeing's St. Louis, Missouri facility: Manufactures the missile's airframe and structural components.

Program Management

The Tomahawk cruise missile program is managed by the United States Navy's Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons (PEO(U&W)). The program office is responsible for overseeing the development, production, and sustainment of the Tomahawk missile system.

Image

History of Tomahawk Cruise Missiles

The Tomahawk cruise missile program was initiated in the 1970s, with the first missiles entering service in 1983. Since then, the program has undergone several upgrades and modernization efforts, resulting in the current Block IV configuration. The Tomahawk missile has been used in various military operations, including the Gulf War, the Kosovo War, and the War in Afghanistan.

Block IV Tomahawk Cruise Missile

The Block IV Tomahawk cruise missile is the latest variant of the Tomahawk missile system. It features a range of improvements, including:

• Advanced guidance system: Incorporates a two-way satellite communication system, allowing for real-time mission updates and retargeting.
• Improved seeker: Enhances the missile's ability to engage targets in complex environments.
• Increased range: Enables the missile to engage targets at ranges exceeding 1,000 nautical miles.

Image

Tomahawk Cruise Missile Variants

Several variants of the Tomahawk cruise missile have been developed over the years, each with distinct capabilities and characteristics. Some of the notable variants include:

• BGM-109A: The initial variant of the Tomahawk missile, featuring a nuclear warhead.
• BGM-109C: A conventionally armed variant, designed for use against surface targets.
• UGM-109C: A submarine-launched variant of the Tomahawk missile.
• AGM-109H: A helicopter-launched variant, designed for use by special operations forces.

Image

Conclusion

The Tomahawk cruise missile is a complex system that requires the collaboration of multiple defense contractors and suppliers. Raytheon Technologies, as the prime contractor, plays a critical role in the design, development, and production of the missile. The program's success is a testament to the effectiveness of the US defense industry's collaborative approach to developing advanced military systems.

Gallery of Tomahawk Cruise Missiles

Tomahawk Cruise Missile Image Gallery