The U.S. Navy and Lockheed Martin have collaborated on software updates for destroyers engaged in combating Houthi missiles and drones in the Red Sea. A team of technical experts analyzed data from all shootdown events since October to improve operations and defense tactics. The Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center has led this mission, focusing on developing surface warfare tactics, providing tactical expertise, and incorporating advanced training events.
The center has established a 24/7 watch and weekly meetings involving key stakeholders to provide support and share information on engagements. Technical experts in Dahlgren, Virginia, in collaboration with various organizations like Lockheed Martin, scour data to identify tactics changes, learn from adversary behavior, and suggest new configurations for ship systems. Lessons learned are shared with the fleet and integrated into training events and software updates for Aegis Combat Systems.
Tweaked tactics and real-world scenarios from Red Sea engagements are incorporated into Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training events to prepare ships for deployment. The adoption of Aegis Speed to Capability process has facilitated the rapid fielding of small software changes to enhance counter-drone capabilities. Lessons learned underscore the critical importance of setting up radar systems for specific environments and tailoring systems to anticipate adversary capabilities in the Red Sea region. Captains and crews in the Red Sea have been praised for their exceptional performance and adaptive skills during sustained combat operations.
