War Department Advances Counter-Drone and Naval Capabilities with Major Contract Awards
Directed-Energy Counter-Drone Pilot Program Contracts Awarded
On October 5, 2026, the War Department selected leading defense technology firms to participate in the Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF 401) Directed-Energy Counter-Drone Pilot Program. The initiative funds prototype systems that employ high-energy lasers and microwave emitters to detect, track and neutralize unmanned aerial threats.
Financial and Strategic Impact
While the pilot phase contract values were undisclosed, precedent projects suggest individual awards between $25 million and $75 million. Successful field evaluations are expected to trigger follow-on procurement of up to $500 million in FY 2028, accelerating deployment of scalable directed-energy defenses to protect critical infrastructure, forward bases and domestic airspace.
Program Highlights
- Focus on counter-UAS solutions leveraging laser and high-power microwave technologies.
- Prototype evaluations under joint War Department and interagency oversight.
- Paves way for full-rate production awards in FY 2028 and beyond.
- Strengthens layered defense posture against evolving drone threats.
Navy Commissions USS Ted Stevens (DDG-131)
The Navy commissioned the USS Ted Stevens (DDG-131), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, on October 5, 2026. Constructed by Huntington Ingalls Industries at the Pascagoula, Mississippi shipyard, DDG-131 expands fleet readiness with its advanced Aegis combat system, AN/SPY-6 radar and 96 vertical launch system cells.
Contract and Fleet Readiness Impact
- Built under a $1.9 billion fixed-price incentive contract, delivered on budget and schedule.
- Sustains shipyard workforce and key supplier network in the Gulf Coast region.
- Enhances U.S. naval deterrence and power-projection capabilities across multiple theaters.