Missile Defense Agency Announces 340 Awards Under SHIELD Contract
The Missile Defense Agency announced on Jan. 15 it awarded an additional 340 contracts under the SHIELD program, increasing the total to 2,440 contractors for missile defense systems. The initiative supports the Golden Dome project, with work continuing through December 2035.
The Navy completed a successful autonomous systems test for Collaborative Combat Aircraft on Dec. 11, 2025, using Kratos BQM-177A targets with Shield AI software. Over 80 ships are now deployed with Project Overmatch capabilities to integrate manned and unmanned systems.
The House approved a fiscal year 2026 spending package with $6.2 billion for Foreign Military Financing. Northrop Grumman delivered its 1,500th F-35 fuselage, while EPF-16 was christened on Jan. 10. Fairbanks Morse Defense expanded its robotic welding program.
The Navy Mobile Ship Target arrived at Port Hueneme for advanced weapon testing. Fleet Readiness Center Southwest opened a new V-22 repair facility. Congress estimates the cost to rename the Department of Defense to the Department of War could reach $125 million.
